Stainless Steel, Austenitic
S31600 (316) Stainless steel
A chromium-nickel-molybdenum austenitic stainless steel.
Stainless steel types 1.4401 (also known as grade 316) is an austenitic grade second only to 304 in commercial importance. It has similar mechanical properties to 304 but is stronger at elevated temperatures.
316 stainless steel contains an addition of molybdenum that gives it improved corrosion resistance. This is particularly apparent for pitting and crevice corrosion in chloride environments. The austenitic structure of 316 stainless steel gives excellent toughness, even at cryogenic temperatures.
Property data given in this document is typical for bar and section products covered by EN standards. ASTM, EN or other standards may cover all products sold. It is reasonable to expect specifications in these standards to be similar but not necessarily identical to those given in this datasheet.
Quarto Plate is hot rolled plate over 12mm thick that has not been coiled during production. CPP is Continuously Produced Plate up to 12mm thick that has been coiled during rolling. Sheet is Cold Rolled.
316 stainless steel is an austenitic stainless steel that is highly valued for its excellent corrosion resistance, superior strength, and good formability. It is widely used in applications where exposure to harsh environments or chemicals is expected.
Property data given in this document is typical for flat rolled products covered by EN standards. ASTM, EN or other standards may cover all products sold. It is reasonable to expect specifications in these standards to be similar but not necessarily identical to those given in this datasheet.
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Range
| Product Form | Sheet Size | Thicknesses |
| Sheet 2B Finish | 2000 x 1000 | 0.6mm - 3.0mm |
| Sheet 2B Finish | 2500 x 1250 | 0.7mm - 6.0mm |
| Sheet 2B Finish | 3000 x 1500 | 1.2mm - 3.0mm |
| Polished Sheet 240 Silicon | 2000 x 1000 | 0.6mm - 3.0mm |
| Polished Sheet 240 Silicon | 2500 x 1250 | 0.7mm - 6.0mm |
| Polished Sheet 240 Silicon | 3000 x 1500 | 1.0mm - 3.0mm |
| CPP Plate ID Finish | 2000 x 1000 | 3.0mm - 6.0mm |
| CPP Plate ID Finish | 2500 x 1250 | 3.0mm - 12.0mm |
| CPP Plate ID Finish | 3000 x 1500 | 3.0mm - 12.0mm |
| CPP Plate ID Finish | 4000 x 1500 | 10.0mm - 12.0mm |
| CPP Plate ID Finish | 4000 x 2000 | 2.0mm - 12.0mm |
| Quarto Plate ID Finsh | 5" - 125" | - |
| Welded Mesh | 96" x 48" | Contact Service Centre |
PLEASE NOTE
If you do not see what you are looking for, please contact your local service centre with your specific requirements.
Related Specifications
Stainless steel grade 1.4401/316 also corresponds to the following designations but may not be a direct equivalent:
- S31608
- SUS 316
- STS 316
- S31600
- X5CrNiMo 17-12-2
- Z6CND 17-11
- 1.4401
- 316S16
Properties
Chemical Composition
SS316 Steel
EN 10088-2
| Chemical Element | % Present |
| Carbon (C) | 0.00 - 0.07 |
| Chromium (Cr) | 16.50 - 18.50 |
| Molybdenum (Mo) | 2.00 - 2.50 |
| Silicon (Si) | 0.00 - 1.00 |
| Phosphorous (P) | 0.00 - 0.05 |
| Sulphur (S) | 0.00 - 0.02 |
| Nickel (Ni) | 10.00 - 13.00 |
| Manganese (Mn) | 0.00 - 2.00 |
| Nitrogen (N) | 0.00 - 0.11 |
| Iron (Fe) | Balance |
Mechanical Properties
Bar & Section Up to 160mm Dia / Thickness
EN 10088-3
| Mechanical Property | Value |
| Proof Stress | 200 Min MPa |
| Tensile Strength | 500 to 700 MPa |
| Elongation A50 mm | 40 Min % |
| Hradness Brinell | 215 Max HB |
General Physical Properties
| Physical Property | Value |
| Density | 8.0 g/cm³ |
| Melting Point | 1400 °C |
| Thermal Expansion | 15.9 x 10-6/K |
| Modulus of Elasticity | 193 GPa |
| Thermal Conductivity | 16.3 W/m.K |
| Electrical Resistivity | 0.74 x 10-6 Ω .m |
Applications of 316 Stainless Steel
316 stainless steel is an austenitic stainless steel known for its excellent corrosion resistance, high strength, and good formability, particularly in harsh environments. It is widely used in marine, chemical, and industrial applications.
1. Marine Applications
Boat fittings and hull components
Marine hardware exposed to saltwater corrosion
Offshore platforms and coastal structures
2. Chemical and Petrochemical Industry
Chemical processing equipment and storage tanks
Piping systems for acids and caustic solutions
Heat exchangers and condensers
3. Food and Beverage Industry
Brewing, dairy, and pharmaceutical equipment
Food processing and handling machinery
Tanks, valves, and pipelines requiring high hygiene and corrosion resistance
4. Medical and Pharmaceutical Applications
Surgical instruments and medical implants
Sterile processing equipment
Laboratory benches and components
5. Industrial and Architectural Uses
Pumps, valves, and fasteners in corrosive environments
Architectural panels and decorative cladding
Industrial machinery exposed to high-moisture or chemical environments
Summary
316 stainless steel is highly versatile, offering superior corrosion resistance, strength, and formability. Its applications span marine, chemical, food processing, medical, and industrial sectors, making it ideal for environments where durability and resistance to corrosion are critical.
Characteristics of 316 Stainless Steel
316 stainless steel is an austenitic stainless steel widely used for its excellent corrosion resistance, high strength, and good mechanical properties. It is especially suitable for harsh environments, including marine and chemical applications.
1. Chemical Composition
Contains chromium (16–18%), nickel (10–14%), and molybdenum (2–3%).
Molybdenum enhances resistance to pitting and crevice corrosion, especially in chloride-rich environments.
2. Corrosion Resistance
Excellent resistance to oxidation, general corrosion, and chloride-induced pitting.
Performs well in marine, chemical, and industrial environments.
3. Mechanical Properties
High tensile strength and yield strength.
Good ductility and toughness, even at low temperatures.
Retains mechanical properties over a wide range of temperatures.
4. Formability and Fabrication
Excellent cold working and forming characteristics.
Can be welded easily using standard methods without significant loss of corrosion resistance.
5. Heat Resistance
Can withstand temperatures up to 870°C (1600°F) intermittently, with continuous service recommended below 925°C (1700°F).
6. Applications
Marine equipment, chemical processing, food and beverage, medical instruments, and architectural components.
Summary
316 stainless steel is characterized by superior corrosion resistance, high strength, excellent formability, and good heat resistance. Its combination of properties makes it ideal for marine, chemical, medical, and industrial applications, particularly in harsh and chloride-rich environments.
Additional Information
Fabrication
Fabrication of 316 Stainless Steel
316 stainless steel is an austenitic grade known for its excellent formability, weldability, and ease of fabrication. Its combination of strength, corrosion resistance, and ductility makes it suitable for a wide range of manufacturing processes.
1. Forming and Shaping
316 stainless steel offers excellent ductility, allowing easy forming into complex shapes.
Suitable for bending, deep drawing, rolling, stamping, and press forming.
Proper lubrication is recommended during forming to reduce galling and tool wear.
2. Machining
Machinability is moderate due to its work-hardening nature.
Best results are achieved using:
Sharp cutting tools
Rigid setups
Controlled feeds and speeds
Coolants and lubricants help prevent heat buildup and extend tool life.
3. Welding
316 stainless steel can be welded using all common techniques:
TIG, MIG, SMAW, and resistance welding
The low-carbon variant 316L is preferred for welded structures to minimize the risk of intergranular corrosion.
Usually does not require post-weld annealing, except for critical corrosion-resistant applications.
4. Hot Working
Hot working operations such as forging and hot rolling are performed at 1200–900°C (2190–1650°F).
Avoid working below 900°C to prevent excessive work hardening.
Components should be followed by annealing to restore corrosion resistance.
5. Cold Working
316 stainless steel responds well to cold working, resulting in:
Increased strength and hardness
Slightly reduced ductility
Cold-worked components may require annealing to relieve stresses.
6. Cutting and Sawing
Plasma cutting, laser cutting, water-jet cutting, and mechanical sawing are all suitable.
Laser cutting provides excellent precision and minimal distortion.
7. Surface Treatment
After fabrication, surfaces can be pickled, passivated, or polished to enhance corrosion resistance and improve appearance.
A smooth finish is essential for sanitary, pharmaceutical, and marine applications.
Summary:
316 stainless steel is easy to fabricate, offering excellent forming, welding, machining, and working characteristics. It is widely used for high-quality components in marine, chemical, food, pharmaceutical, and architectural industries where corrosion resistance and durability are essential.
Weldability
Weldability of 316 Stainless Steel
316 stainless steel has excellent weldability due to its austenitic structure and balanced chemical composition. It can be welded using all standard methods while maintaining strong mechanical and corrosion-resistant properties.
1. Suitable Welding Methods
316 stainless steel is compatible with all common welding techniques, including:
TIG (GTAW)
MIG (GMAW)
SMAW (Shielded Metal Arc Welding)
FCAW (Flux-Cored Arc Welding)
Resistance welding (spot and seam)
These methods produce strong, clean welds with minimal distortion.
2. Filler Metals
Recommended filler metals: 316, 316L, or 316LSi.
316L filler is preferred for minimizing carbide precipitation and maximizing corrosion resistance in the heat-affected zone (HAZ).
3. Low Risk of Sensitization
The 316L variant contains low carbon (≤0.03%), reducing the risk of chromium carbide precipitation.
This significantly decreases susceptibility to intergranular corrosion, especially after welding.
4. Pre- and Post-Weld Heat Treatment
Preheat is not required due to the steel’s stable austenitic microstructure.
Post-weld annealing is usually unnecessary, except in highly corrosive environments or applications requiring full corrosion resistance.
5. Welding Considerations
Proper heat input control helps prevent:
Excessive grain growth
Distortion
Reduction of corrosion resistance
Avoid contamination with carbon steel to prevent surface rust or reduced corrosion performance.
Argon or argon/helium shielding gases are commonly used for best results.
6. Weld Joint Quality
Welds typically exhibit excellent toughness and ductility.
When welded correctly, 316 stainless steel retains strong corrosion resistance, including resistance to chlorides, acids, and marine environments.
Summary
316 stainless steel offers excellent weldability, maintains high corrosion resistance after welding, and supports all conventional welding methods. The use of 316L fillers and proper heat control ensures strong, long-lasting weld joints suitable for marine, chemical processing, food, pharmaceutical, and industrial applications.
Machinability
Machinability of 316 Stainless Steel
316 stainless steel has moderate machinability due to its austenitic structure and tendency to work harden. With proper tooling, cutting conditions, and cooling, it can be machined effectively for precision components.
1. Work Hardening Behavior
316 stainless steel work-hardens rapidly, which can make machining more challenging.
To avoid excessive hardening, use:
Rigid tooling setups
Consistent, continuous cuts rather than light, slow passes
Sharp cutting tools to reduce tool pressure
2. Recommended Cutting Tools
Carbide tools are preferred for high-speed machining.
High-speed steel (HSS) tools may be used for lighter operations.
Tools should be:
Sharp and well-supported
Resistant to heat
Coated where appropriate to reduce friction
3. Cutting Speeds and Feeds
Lower cutting speeds but higher feed rates help minimize heat buildup and tool wear.
Avoid dwelling or stopping the tool during cutting, as this promotes work hardening.
4. Coolants and Lubrication
Generous use of coolants, especially sulfurized or chlorinated lubricants, improves:
Tool life
Surface finish
Heat dissipation
Flood coolant is typically recommended for heavy machining.
5. Surface Finish
316 stainless steel can achieve excellent surface finishes with correct machining parameters.
Careful control of feeds, speeds, and coolant ensures a smooth, high-quality final surface.
6. Machined Component Applications
Machined parts made from 316 stainless steel are common in industries such as:
Marine equipment
Chemical processing
Food and pharmaceutical machinery
High-corrosion-resistant fasteners, valves, and fittings
Summary
316 stainless steel offers moderate machinability, requiring proper tool selection, sharp cutting edges, controlled speeds and feeds, and ample coolant. When machined correctly, it delivers excellent precision and corrosion-resistant performance for demanding applications.
Corrosion Resistance
Corrosion Resistance of 316 Stainless Steel
316 stainless steel is renowned for its excellent corrosion resistance, especially in environments containing chlorides, acids, and industrial chemicals. Its molybdenum-enhanced composition provides superior protection compared to standard 304 stainless steel.
1. Resistance to Chloride Attack
The addition of 2–3% molybdenum significantly improves resistance to pitting and crevice corrosion.
Performs exceptionally well in marine, coastal, and salt-contaminated environments.
More resistant than 304 in brackish water, salt spray, and chloride-rich atmospheres.
2. General Corrosion Resistance
Excellent resistance to a wide range of corrosive agents, including:
Mild acids
Alkaline solutions
Industrial chemicals
Suitable for long-term exposure in chemical processing, food, and pharmaceutical environments.
3. Acid Resistance
Good resistance to organic acids (e.g., acetic acid) and many inorganic acids.
Performs better than 304 in acidic chloride environments.
Not recommended for long-term use in strong reducing acids like hydrochloric acid.
4. Intergranular Corrosion
Low-carbon variant 316L greatly reduces sensitization during welding.
Offers strong protection against intergranular corrosion in the heat-affected zone (HAZ).
5. Stress Corrosion Cracking
Good resistance to chloride stress corrosion cracking (SCC), especially in moderate temperatures.
Higher performance than 304 stainless steel under tensile stress in chloride environments.
6. Oxidation Resistance
Good resistance to oxidation in continuous service up to 870°C (1600°F).
Suitable for applications involving heat and corrosive atmospheres.
7. Hygienic and Clean Surface
Its smooth, non-porous surface resists contamination and corrosion, making it ideal for:
Food processing equipment
Medical and pharmaceutical systems
Sanitary and sterile environments
Summary
316 stainless steel provides exceptional corrosion resistance, particularly against chlorides, acids, pitting, and crevice corrosion. Its molybdenum content and strong performance in aggressive environments make it one of the most reliable stainless steels for marine, chemical, food, pharmaceutical, and industrial applications.
Cold Working
Cold Working of 316 Stainless Steel
316 stainless steel responds well to cold working and can be formed into a wide range of shapes while increasing its strength and hardness. Its austenitic structure provides excellent ductility, allowing extensive deformation without cracking.
1. Cold Working Characteristics
316 stainless steel exhibits high ductility, making it suitable for deep drawing, bending, rolling, swaging, and stamping.
The material work-hardens rapidly, which increases strength but may require intermediate annealing for complex forming operations.
Cold working enhances:
Tensile strength
Yield strength
Hardness
Slight magnetism
2. Common Cold Working Processes
Cold rolling for sheets, strips, and coils
Bending and forming for structural and architectural components
Stamping and deep drawing for kitchenware, chemical containers, and industrial parts
Wire drawing for fasteners, springs, and precision wire products
3. Effects of Cold Working
Significant strengthening due to strain hardening
Reduced ductility with increasing deformation
Surface finish can be improved or modified depending on the process
May develop slight magnetic properties after heavy cold work
4. Annealing Requirements
For severe or multi-stage cold forming, intermediate annealing may be required to restore ductility.
Full annealing after cold working may be performed to:
Relieve internal stresses
Improve corrosion resistance
Return the material to a non-magnetic, fully austenitic state
5. Considerations During Cold Working
Use appropriate lubrication to reduce galling and tooling wear.
High-strength tools and dies are recommended due to work hardening.
Rapid work hardening may require careful planning to avoid cracking in tight bends or deep draws.
Summary
316 stainless steel offers excellent cold working capabilities, allowing it to be shaped into complex forms while increasing strength. Though the alloy work-hardens quickly, proper annealing and process control ensure high-quality, corrosion-resistant components for demanding applications.
Heat Treatment
Heat Treatment of 316 Stainless Steel
316 stainless steel cannot be hardened by heat treatment because it is an austenitic stainless steel. However, heat treatment is used to restore corrosion resistance, relieve stress, and improve ductility after working or welding.
1. Annealing
The primary heat treatment for 316 stainless steel is annealing.
Recommended annealing temperature: 1010–1120°C (1850–2050°F).
After heating, the material should be rapidly quenched in water or air to ensure a fully austenitic structure.
Annealing:
Restores ductility
Relieves internal stresses
Maximizes corrosion resistance
2. Stress Relieving
Light stress relief can be performed at 400–480°C (750–900°F).
Avoid higher temperatures (around 600–900°C) because this range can cause carbide precipitation, reducing corrosion resistance.
For welded components, 316L is preferred to reduce sensitization risk.
3. Hardening
316 stainless steel cannot be hardened by heat treatment.
Hardness and strength can only be increased through cold working.
4. Solution Treatment
Solution annealing at ~1050–1100°C followed by rapid cooling dissolves carbides and restores full corrosion resistance.
Often performed after heavy cold working or welding operations.
5. Post-Weld Heat Treatment
Generally not required, especially when using low-carbon 316L.
When maximum corrosion resistance is needed, solution annealing may be applied after welding.
Summary
316 stainless steel is not heat-treatable for hardening, but annealing and solution treatment are essential processes to restore corrosion resistance, relieve stress, and improve ductility. Optimal heat treatment involves heating to 1010–1120°C followed by rapid cooling.
Heat Resistance
Heat Resistance of 316 Stainless Steel
316 stainless steel provides excellent heat resistance due to its stable austenitic structure and molybdenum-enhanced composition. It performs well in high-temperature and oxidizing environments, making it suitable for thermal processing equipment and elevated-temperature applications.
1. High-Temperature Performance
316 stainless steel maintains good mechanical strength and oxidation resistance at temperatures up to 870°C (1600°F) in continuous service.
For intermittent service, it can tolerate temperatures up to 925°C (1700°F).
2. Oxidation Resistance
Shows excellent resistance to oxidation and scaling in air at elevated temperatures.
The chromium-rich oxide layer provides stable protection during heating cycles.
3. Resistance in High-Temperature Environments
Performs well in hot corrosive environments containing:
Steam
Hot gases
Mild acidic or chloride-containing atmospheres
Offers better hot-corrosion resistance than 304 stainless steel, especially in environments with chlorides and salts.
4. Creep and Stress Rupture Properties
Good creep resistance and stress rupture strength at elevated temperatures.
Suitable for components exposed to long-term stress at high temperatures.
5. Considerations
Prolonged exposure between 425–860°C (800–1580°F) may cause sensitization due to carbide precipitation, reducing corrosion resistance.
The low-carbon grade 316L is preferred for welded components requiring high-temperature corrosion resistance.
Summary
316 stainless steel offers excellent heat and oxidation resistance, maintaining strength and stability up to 870–925°C, with strong performance in hot corrosive and chloride-containing environments. These properties make it ideal for industrial heating systems, chemical processing, marine atmospheres, and high-temperature structural components.
Hot Working
Hot Working of 316 Stainless Steel
316 stainless steel can be effectively hot worked thanks to its excellent ductility and stable austenitic structure. Proper temperature control is essential to maintain mechanical properties, surface quality, and corrosion resistance.
1. Recommended Hot Working Temperature Range
Ideal hot working temperature: 1200–900°C (2190–1650°F)
Avoid working the material below 900°C, as it may cause excessive work hardening and increase the risk of cracking.
Do not exceed 1250°C, which can lead to grain growth and reduced toughness.
2. Hot Working Processes
Common hot working operations include:
Hot rolling of plates, sheets, and coils
Forging of bars, flanges, and heavy-duty components
Hot extrusion of tubes and complex profiles
Upsetting and forming for industrial and pressure applications
3. Characteristics During Hot Working
Excellent high-temperature ductility allows significant deformation.
Material remains stable and resistant to cracking when properly heated.
Controlled deformation helps produce uniform grain structure and consistent mechanical properties.
4. Post–Hot Working Treatment
Annealing is recommended after heavy hot working:
Typical annealing temperature: 1010–1120°C (1850–2050°F)
Followed by rapid cooling to restore corrosion resistance and relieve internal stresses
Pickling and passivation may be performed to clean the surface and enhance corrosion protection.
5. Considerations
Ensure uniform heating throughout the material to avoid distortion or cracking.
Apply controlled cooling to prevent warping and maintain structural stability.
Avoid prolonged exposure in the 425–860°C (800–1580°F) range to minimize sensitization and loss of corrosion resistance (use 316L for welded/high-corrosion applications).
Summary
316 stainless steel is highly suitable for hot working operations such as forging, rolling, and extrusion. Best results are achieved when working at 1200–900°C, followed by proper annealing and rapid cooling to ensure optimal mechanical properties and corrosion resistance.
