What Makes 316 Stainless Steel So Popular?

By Author: James Matthews
Total Articles: 12
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There are many types of stainless steel available, each suited to particular uses and environments. 316 stainless is able to withstand hostile environments better than other alloys, which is why it is commonly used in industry, transportation, and architecture.

What exactly is it?

Stainless steel is the term used to refer to the combination of steel with other metals in order to improve its resilience and strength under certain pressures. All stainless alloys contain at least 10.5 to 11 percent chromium by weight and are more resistant to rust and corrosion when exposed to the elements. However, although it is called stainless, it can definitely become stained through wear and tear. There are different grades as well as a variety of finishes to ensure that it is able to perform properly for the task at hand.

Learning about 316 stainless

316 grade has more nickel than other alloys and contains molybdenum, setting it apart from the other alloys commonly used. The molybdenum allows the steel to stand up better to corrosion, particularly pitting and crevice corrosion. Additionally, this alloy lends ...
... itself to both forming and welding without excessive cracking. For this reason, it is particularly good for hostile environments such as marine settings, other outdoor settings, and even the human body.

Some places you might see this type of steel at work include:
-Equipment used in food preparation
-Benches and equipment in laboratories
-Springs
-Surgical implants
-Boat fittings
-Heat exchangers
-Printing
-Photography
-You can even find this type of steel on two of the world's tallest buildings - the Petronas Twin Towers and the Jin Mao Building.

Limitations of 316 grade alloy

While this particular alloy is stronger than many other types of stainless steel, it is not impervious to damage. Although it is considered to be marine grade, 316 can be corroded by seawater and warm air, especially at joints or surfaces that are roughly finished. Additionally, high temperatures and excessive acid exposure can eventually corrode and pit the steel, and stress corrosion cracking can occur in high temperatures as well.

If you are looking for help your next project involving 316 stainless steel, contact It Straps On today. We are leaders in the custom stainless steel products such as banding and strapping and will work with you to create custom pieces specifically for your project.