316L Stainless Steel (1.4404) provides excellent corrosion resistance & weldability without post-weld annealing. Perfect for medical, marine & chemical applications. Free sample available.
Delivery :
FOB
minimum order :
50 kilograms
Supply Ability :
5000kilograms / Month
Stock Time :
7-10Day
Country of Origin :
CHINA
Quantity :
add to cart
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316L is the low-carbon version of 316 stainless steel, specifically formulated to eliminate sensitization and intergranular corrosion after welding. With maximum carbon content of 0.03%, it retains the molybdenum-enhanced pitting and crevice corrosion resistance of standard 316 while offering superior weldability, particularly in heavy sections. This grade is the preferred choice for welded fabrications in marine, chemical, pharmaceutical, and medical implant applications requiring maximum corrosion protection after welding .
1. Product Specifications & Physical Data
ZYTC Alloy supplies 316L stainless steel in comprehensive mill forms for industries requiring verified corrosion resistance and weldability.
Available Forms: Sheet, strip, plate, wire, forging stock, tube, rod, round bar, and fittings .
Specifications: ASTM A240, ASTM A276, ASTM A312, EN 10088-2 1.4404, UNS S31603 .
Chemical Composition (Weight %)
316L Stainless Specification
Chromium (Cr)
16.5 - 18.5
Nickel (Ni)
10.0 - 13.0
Molybdenum (Mo)
2.0 - 2.5
Carbon (C)
0.03 max.
Manganese (Mn)
2.0 max.
Silicon (Si)
1.0 max.
Phosphorus (P)
0.045 max.
Sulfur (S)
0.030 max.
Nitrogen (N)
0.10 max.
Iron (Fe)
Balance
Physical Properties
Metric
Imperial
Density
8.0 g/cm³
0.289 lb/in³
Melting Point
1370 - 1400°C
2500 - 2550°F
Modulus of Elasticity
193 GPa
28,000 ksi
Thermal Expansion (20-100°C)
15.9 µm/m·°C
8.8 µin/in·°F
Thermal Conductivity (RT)
16.3 W/m·K
113 BTU·in/hr·ft²·°F
Mechanical Properties (Minimum)
Value
Unit
Proof Strength (0.2% offset)
200 MPa
29 ksi
Tensile Strength
500-700 MPa
72.5-101.5 ksi
Elongation (A50)
40%
40%
Hardness (Brinell)
215 max.
215 max.
2. Operating Conditions & Selection Criteria
316L is specified when designers require the corrosion resistance of 316 stainless steel in welded fabrications where sensitization could otherwise occur.
Low-Carbon Advantage: Maximum carbon of 0.03% prevents chromium carbide precipitation during welding, eliminating risk of intergranular corrosion in heat-affected zones .
Molybdenum Effect: 2-2.5% molybdenum provides superior resistance to pitting and crevice corrosion in chloride environments, seawater, and industrial chemicals .
Weldability: Excellent weldability without post-weld annealing, even in heavy sections; no risk of sensitization .
Service Temperature Range: Continuous service up to 870°C (1600°F); intermittent service to 925°C (1700°F) .
Biocompatibility: ISO 5832-1 approved for surgical implants; excellent corrosion resistance in physiological environments .
Formability: Excellent formability identical to 316; suitable for deep drawing, bending, and complex forming .
3. Fabrication & Material Comparison
Heat Treatment: Solution anneal 1010-1120°C (1850-2050°F), rapid cool (water quench or accelerated air cool); cannot be hardened by heat treatment .
Forming: Excellent formability in annealed condition; work-hardening rate moderate; similar to 316 but with slightly lower work-hardening rate .
Machining: Slightly easier to machine than standard 316 due to lower carbon; requires sharp tools, positive feeds, and adequate coolant to prevent work hardening .
Welding: Excellent weldability using all standard fusion and resistance methods; 316L filler recommended; no post-weld annealing required .
Material Comparison:
vs. 316 Stainless: Lower carbon prevents sensitization after welding; identical mechanical and corrosion properties; preferred for welded fabrications .
vs. 304L: Molybdenum addition provides superior pitting resistance in chloride environments; essential for marine and chemical service .
vs. 317L: Lower molybdenum (2-2.5% vs. 3-4%) than 317L; 316L offers excellent performance at lower cost for most applications .
vs. 316Ti: Titanium-stabilized alternative; 316L achieves intergranular corrosion resistance through low carbon rather than stabilization .
4. Applications
Chemical Processing: Welded tanks, vessels, piping systems, heat exchangers
Medical Implants: Surgical pins, screws, orthopedic implants (hip and knee replacements)
Food Processing: Equipment for chloride-containing food environments, brewery tanks
Architectural: Coastal building components, handrails, exterior trim
Fasteners: Bolts, nuts, screws requiring corrosion resistance in welded assemblies
Contact ZYTC Alloy for certified 316L stainless steel materials with complete traceability, ASTM/EN specifications, technical datasheets, and competitive pricing on standard sizes or custom-fabricated components.
