Stainless Steel 304 vs. 316

The two basic type of stainless steel are Stainless Steel 304 and Stainless Steel 316 which reveals following significant differences. These grades are used in kitchen utensils and cutleries, automobiles; motorcycles; pipes for industrial uses; etc. But what sets them apart? And which is preferable to do for the required task by you?

It is therefore important to know the differences in between these two types of material so as to make the right decision. Even such things like the chemical composition and physical endurance and resistance to corrosion are important. At Aesteiron, we provide you with easy understanding of complex technical inputs for right decisions. 

304 

Stainless steel 304 is composed of 18% chromium, 8% nickel which makes it chemically in active to rust and corrosion. This grade is applicable for mostly any purpose. They are common in household production, food processing equipment, and construction of architectural structures.

Among the opportunities which client choose it for is the fact that it is relatively cheap. It is one of the best among the many options as it delivers high performance; the price is way lower compared to Stainless Steel 316. However, it has its limitations, though it gave significant inputs during our analyses for this research paper.

316

Stainless Steel 316 comes with 16% chromium, 10% nickel and 2% molybdendum. Molybdenum makes it more harder and it also withstands saltwater corroding action, acids, and chlorides. This makes it suitable for usage in marine environments and in chemically related industries.

However, Stainless Steel 316 has better properties than 304; therefore, it is a little expensive than the 304. Well known applications include Medical instrumentation uses, Marine equipments and application in high performance industries. Nonetheless, it is usually costly, but the advantages it brings in the long-run tend to offer the much-needed incentive to make the investment.

The Differences 304 and 316 Grade

The main variation between Stainless Steel 304 and 316 is addition of Molybdenum in the latter. The grades of 316 contain additional amount of impurity which is molybdenum further increasing the corrosion resistance capability of the given material. This makes it ideal for the worst conditions out there.

This can be depicted by their density where one type can occupy less space than the other type Image lactose density The type of food determines the size of the serving as seen in the image below Image lactose density. Stainless steel 316 density is little greater than Stainless steel 304 density as a result SS316 is stronger but more weighty than SS304. When it comes to engineers, there is nothing as important as the Stainless Steel Pipe Weight Chart or Stainless Steel Sheet Weight Chart in comparing these grades depending on projects in question.

Choosing the Right Grade

Stainless Steel 304 and Stainless Steel 316 are very similar; however those differences are consequences that will dictate which type is used for your construction. Stainless Steel 304 is quite suitable for tactical level as well as operational level activities in essence of civil use. This makes it economical and long lasting it is therefore practical.

In case you are planning to use your application in areas that involves exposure to rough, raw and potentially corrosive conditions, then Stainless Steel 316 is the best to work with. It also endures higher level of corrosive actions thus is suitable for use in long-term applications in higher risk sectors such as marine or medical.

Conclusion

Tools used in drilling operations has its merit in specifications of Stainless Steel 304 and 316. The 304 is cheaper and widely used than sts 316 but they cannot withstand conditions as well as sts 316 withstand. These distinctions tell you what kind of material to pick for your specific application.

At Aesteiron, we produce a wide range of stainless steel products that meets your needs. With resources including the Stainless Steel Round Bar Weight Chart, as well as our reliable guidance on material selection, we’re here to help. Choose us for expert services in metal demands for promoting industrial growth.