What Does
316 Grade Stainless Steel Mean?
316 grade stainless steel is an austenitic form of stainless steel known for its 2-3% molybdenum content. The added molybdenum makes the metal more resistant to pitting and corrosion, as well as improving resistance when exposed to elevated temperatures.
This grade of stainless steel is particularly effective when used in acidic environments. With this metal, corrosion that is caused by acetic, hydrochloric and other forms of acids can be prevented.
Corrosionpedia Explains 316 Grade Stainless Steel
Grade 316 stainless steel is designed for extreme environments or those industries that require stronger protection and corrosion resistance than stainless steel under the 300 series. 316 grade stainless steel is commonly used in the manufacturing of furnace pieces, exhaust manifolds, photographic and pharmaceutical machinery as well as parts of jet engines.
This stainless steel is also ideal for use with evaporators, equipment for chemical processing as well as in the paper and textile industry. It is also the metal of choice for advanced surgical implants that are intended for the hostile body environment.
It is a major metal utilized in the marine industry, particularly in areas where much wear resistance and strength are required. In other cases that do not meet these conditions, other stainless steel grades are used, such as 303, 304 and so forth.