Understanding 316 Stainless Steel Composition and Applications - Primer
May 12, 2012
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Date: 12-MAY-2012 Last Updated: 19-JUNE-2025
What Is Grade 316 Stainless Steel?
According to Atlas Steels Australia, Grade 316 is the standard molybdenum-bearing grade among austenitic stainless steels. It is second only to Grade 304 in commercial importance. The addition of molybdenum enhances its resistance to:- Pitting and crevice corrosion, especially in chloride-rich environments
- General corrosion, making it ideal for harsh chemical and marine conditions
Key Properties of 316 Stainless Steel:
- Excellent corrosion resistance in a wide range of environments
- Superior formability and weldability, suitable for complex shapes and assemblies
- No post-weld annealing required for thin sections
- High strength and durability, even at elevated temperatures
Additional Notes on Material Designations:
- Tempering is a heat treatment process used to increase the toughness of iron-based alloys. It differs from titanium designations such as Ti1 or Ti2, which refer to the percentage of pure titanium in an alloy. Generally, a higher number indicates a greater titanium content and improved performance in specific applications.
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