While stainless steel 316 has 16% chromium, 10% nickel, and 2% molybdenum, stainless steel 304 includes 18% chromium and 8% nickel. To help chlorides resist corrosion, molybdenum is added (like seawater and deicing salts). Additionally, grade 304 stainless steel pipe has a greater melting point than grade 316 stainless steels pipe. Grade 316 stainless steel has a melting range of 2,500°F to 2,550°F (1,371°C to 1,399°C), which is roughly 50 to 100°F lower than the melting point of grade 304 stainless steel.
The corrosion resistance of stainless steel pipe products made from grades 304 and 316 is among the best in the metals industry. The differences that enable 316 and 304 stainless steels for comparable and individually unique industrial applications are provided by each alloy grade while maintaining its distinct qualities.
Stainless Steel 304 Pipe
Due to its superior corrosion resistance and affordability, Stainless Steel 304 Pipe is the most popular variety used globally. It has a chromium content of 16 to 24 percent, a nickel content of up to 35 percent, and trace levels of carbon and manganese. The most popular variety of type 304 stainless steel is 18-8 (18/8) stainless steel, which has a chromium and nickel content of 18% and 8%, respectively.
Most oxidizing acids won’t cause 304 to corrode. Because of its toughness, 304 is simple to sterilize, making it perfect for usage in the kitchen and with food. Additionally, it is typical of site furniture, decor, and buildings. Although 304 stainless steel is unbreakable, it can corrode when exposed to salty environments like the seashore or chloride solutions.
Common Uses of Stainless Steels 304 Pipe
SS 304 pipe is used in storage tanks, personalized equipment, cooking utensils, household sink components, hardware used in architecture and interior design, mechanical tubing, and hardware for joining and completing parts.
Stainless Steel 316 Pipe
The second-most popular type of Stainless Steel 316 Pipe is grade. It comprises a similar composition of materials and has essentially identical physical and mechanical qualities to 304 stainless steels. The main distinction is that SS 316 pipe contains between 2 and 3 percent molybdenum. Corrosion resistance is improved by the addition, especially when used in conjunction with chlorides and other industrial solvents.
In numerous industrial settings where chemicals are processed, as well as in high-saline conditions like coastal locations and outdoor spaces where de-icing salts are frequently utilized, 316 stainless steel is frequently employed. SS 316 stainless steel tubing is frequently utilized to make medical and surgical equipment because of its non-reactive properties.
Common Uses of Stainless Steels 316 Pipe
Transportation, industrial, and production of chemicals pressure tanks, pipelines and cisterns used in chemical applications Marine equipment, outdoor site furnishings, and non-surgical metals were used in medical equipment. Restaurant kitchens, Commercial appliances, saline conditions for food production and processing.
