1.4401 (AISI 316) Annealed Stainless Steel Tube
If you're looking for a high-performance stainless steel tube with excellent corrosion resistance and durability, 1.4401 (AISI 316) annealed stainless steel tubing is one of the most reliable choices in industrial applications. In this guide, we'll explore its properties, key uses, and why choosing the right supplier matters for your project success.
What is 1.4401 (AISI 316) Annealed Stainless Steel Tube?
EN 1.4401 is the European designation equivalent to AISI 316, a molybdenum-alloyed austenitic stainless steel. It offers significantly improved resistance to pitting and crevice corrosion in chloride environments compared to 304/1.4301.
Annealing is a heat treatment process: the tube is heated to 1050–1150°C (1922–2102°F) and then rapidly cooled (quenched) in water or air. This process softens the material, relieves internal stresses, and optimizes its microstructure for better ductility and corrosion resistance.
Chemical Composition of 1.4401 / AISI 316
| Element | Content (%) |
|---|---|
| Chromium (Cr) | 16.5 – 18.5 |
| Nickel (Ni) | 10.0 – 13.0 |
| Molybdenum(Mo) | 2.0 – 2.5 |
| Carbon (C) | ≤ 0.07 |
| Manganese (Mn) | ≤ 2.0 |
| Silicon (Si) | ≤ 1.0 |
| Phosphorus (P) | ≤ 0.045 |
| Sulfur (S) | ≤ 0.015 |
Mechanical Properties (Annealed Condition)
| Property | Typical Value |
|---|---|
| Tensile Strength | ≥ 520 MPa |
| Yield Strength (0.2%) | ≥ 220 MPa |
| Elongation | ≥ 40% |
| Hardness (HRB) | ≤ 90 |
| Density | 8.0 g/cm³ |
AISI 316 pipe ：Non-Annealed vs.Annealed
Annealed 1.4401/AISI 316 tubes combine the best of corrosion resistance and workability.
| Property | Non-Annealed 1.4401/AISI 316 | Annealed 1.4401/AISI 316 |
|---|---|---|
| Ductility (Elongation) | 20–30% | ≥40% |
| Hardness (HBW) | 220–250 | ≤210 |
| Corrosion Resistance | Good | Excellent |
| Internal Stress | High (from rolling/forming) | Low |
Is annealed 316 tubing more expensive than non-annealed?
Yes, but the extra cost (typically 10–15%) is offset by easier fabrication and longer service life in corrosive environments.
Can annealed 316 tubes be welded?
Absolutely. Annealing improves weldability by reducing internal stresses, though using ER316 filler metal is recommended to maintain corrosion resistance.
How does it compare to 304 annealed tubing?
316 annealed tubes have better chloride resistance (thanks to molybdenum) and are more durable in harsh environments than 304.
Why Choose GNEE
🔹 Full Traceability – EN 10204 3.1 / 3.2 MTC available
🔹 Customized Sizes – Cutting, polishing, and U-bending on request
🔹 Fast Delivery – Global logistics to over 60 countries
🔹 Quality Assurance – 100% PMI, hydrostatic test, and surface inspection
🔹 Competitive Price – Factory-direct sales with volume discounts
Available Tube Specifications from GNEE
| Specification | Range |
|---|---|
| Outer Diameter | 6 mm – 219 mm |
| Wall Thickness | 0.5 mm – 10 mm |
| Length | Up to 12 meters |
| Surface Finish | Annealed + Pickled / Polished / BA |
| Standards | ASTM A269 / A213 / EN 10216-5 |
| Tolerances | As per ISO H8/H9 or custom |
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