When selecting stainless steel that must endure corrosive environments, austenitic stainless steel is typically used. Possessing excellent mechanical properties, the high amounts of nickel and chromium in austenitic stainless steels also provide outstanding corrosion resistance. Additionally, many austenitic stainless steels are weldable and formable.

Two of the more commonly used grades of austenitic stainless steel are grades 304 and 316. To help you determine which grade is right for your project, this passage will examine the difference between 304 and 316 stainless steel.

304 Stainless Steel

Grade 304 stainless steel is generally regarded as the most common austenitic stainless steel. It contains high nickel content that is typically between 8 and 10.5 percent by weight and a high amount of chromium at approximately 18 to 20 percent by weight. Other major alloying elements include manganese, silicon, and carbon. The remainder of the chemical composition is primarily iron.

The high amounts of chromium and nickel give 304 stainless steel excellent corrosion resistance. Common applications of 304 stainless steel include:

Appliances such as refrigerators and dishwashers

Commercial food processing equipment

Fasteners

Piping

Heat exchangers

Structures in environments that would corrode standard carbon steel.

316 Stainless Steel

Similar to 304, Grade 316 stainless steel has high amounts of chromium and nickel. 316 also contains silicon, manganese, and carbon, with the majority of the composition being iron. A major difference between 304 and 316 stainless steel is the chemical composition, with 316 containing a significant amount of molybdenum; typically 2 to 3 percent by weight vs the only trace amounts found in 304. The higher molybdenum content results in grade 316 possessing increased corrosion resistance.

316 stainless steel is often considered one of the most suitable choices when selecting austenitic stainless steel for marine applications. Other common applications of 316 stainless steel include:

Chemical processing and storage equipment.

Refinery equipment

Medical devices

The application requires excellent formability. The higher molybdenum content in Grade 316 can have adverse effects on formability. The application has cost concerns. Grade 304 is typically more affordable than Grade 316. Here are some situations where 316 stainless steel may be the better choice:

The environment includes a high amount of corrosive elements.

The material will be placed underwater or be exposed to water consistently.

In applications where greater strength and hardness are required.