316L | Intamet Ltd

316L / 1.4404 / 1.4435

316L is a type of stainless steel with low carbon content, good corrosion resistance, and high strength. It is commonly used in medical implants, marine equipment, and chemical processing.

316L is a type of stainless steel that is known for its excellent corrosion resistance and strength. It is commonly used in a variety of applications, including medical implants, marine equipment, and chemical processing.

One of the key characteristics of 316L is its low carbon content. This gives the steel a higher resistance to intergranular corrosion, which can occur when the steel is heated to high temperatures. Additionally, the low carbon content also makes it less prone to sensitization, which is a phenomenon that can lead to corrosion in certain environments.

Another important feature of 316L is its high resistance to corrosion in a wide range of environments, including both fresh and salt water, as well as most chemicals. This makes it ideal for use in marine and chemical processing applications.

316L is also used in a variety of medical applications, particularly in surgical implants. The steel's biocompatibility, strength, and corrosion resistance make it well suited for use in the human body.

In terms of its mechanical properties, 316L has a high tensile strength and good ductility, which make it well-suited for use in many different types of manufacturing and construction applications.

Overall, 316L is a versatile and durable material that is well-suited for use in a wide range of applications, thanks to its low carbon content, high corrosion resistance, and high strength.

Chemical Composition of 316L

The chemical composition of 316L stainless steel typically includes:

Carbon (C): 0.03% max
Manganese (Mn): 2.00% max
Silicon (Si): 1.00% max
Chromium (Cr): 16.00-18.00%
Nickel (Ni): 10.00-14.00%
Molybdenum (Mo): 2.00-3.00%
Phosphorus (P): 0.045% max
Sulfur (S): 0.030% max
Nitrogen (N): 0.1% max
Iron (Fe): balance

Please note that the above composition is just a general representation and it may vary slightly depending on the manufacturer or the standard used.

The physical and mechanical properties of 316L stainless steel can vary depending on the specific composition and manufacturing process, but generally, it can have the following properties:

Physical Properties:

Density: 8.0 g/cm3
Melting Point: 1454 - 1538°C (2650 - 2800°F)

Mechanical Properties (Annealed condition)

Tensile Strength: 515 MPa (75 ksi)
Yield Strength: 205 MPa (30 ksi)
Elongation: 40%
Hardness (Brinell): 217
Modulus of Elasticity: 193 GPa (28 x 106 psi)

The above properties can change depending on the condition, heat treatment or cold work. 316L stainless steel is generally considered to have good forming and welding characteristics and is often used in the manufacture of heavy-duty equipment and structures.

Physical & Mechanical Properties of 316L

Variants of 316

There are several variants of 316 stainless steel, which are designed for specific applications or to improve certain properties of the material. Some of the most common variants include:

316Ti: This variant of 316 is alloyed with titanium to improve its resistance to corrosion, particularly in environments with high temperatures and high concentrations of chlorides.
316L: This variant of 316 is low carbon, for improved resistance to intergranular corrosion and improved welding characteristics
316H: This variant of 316 is a high carbon version, which improves its strength and hardness. It is often used in high-stress applications such as valves and pumps.
316LN: This variant of 316 is nitrogen-alloyed to improve its strength and toughness. It is often used in high-stress applications such as aerospace and nuclear power plants.
316F: This variant of 316 is free-machining, with added sulfur, it is often used in the manufacture of gears, bearings, and other precision components.
316L Mod: This variant of 316 is modified to improve its machinability. It is often used in the manufacture of gears, bearings, and other precision components.
316L-Si: This variant of 316 is alloyed with silicon to improve its resistance to corrosion and oxidation. It is often used in high-temperature applications such as furnace components and heat exchangers.

Please note that the above variants are just a general representation, and other variants exist to meet specific requirements, such as 316L-Mo for improved resistance to pitting and crevice corrosion, 316L-Cu for improved resistance to stress corrosion cracking.