1.4401 vs 1.4571 stainless steel: what’s the difference?

When selecting stainless steel for critical applications, the choice between 1.4401 (AISI 316) and 1.4571 (AISI 316Ti) often arises. Both grades belong to the 316 family of stainless steels, but they have key differences that affect their performance in high-temperature, corrosive, and specialized environments.

In this article, we'll explore the differences between 1.4401 and 1.4571, answering common questions to help you choose the right material for your application.

 

What is 1.4401 Stainless Steel?

1.4401 (also known as AISI 316) is a ustenitic stainless steel that offers outstanding corrosion resistance, especially in chloride environments such as marine applications. It is composed of 16-18% chromium, 10-14% nickel, and 2-3% molybdenum, making it ideal for industries like chemical processing, pharmaceuticals, and food production. Its ability to withstand pitting and crevice corrosion makes it an excellent choice for equipment exposed to harsh conditions.

 

What is 1.4571 Stainless Steel?

1.4571 (also known as AISI 316Ti) is a variation of 1.4401 that includes titanium to provide enhanced resistance to sensitization and high-temperature strength. It is typically used in high-temperature environments and applications requiring resistance to scaling. The addition of titanium allows it to perform better than standard 316 in welding and high-heat conditions without suffering from intergranular corrosion.

 

Chemical Composition

Grade	C (max)	Cr	Ni	Mo	Ti	Mn	Si	P (max)	S (max)
1.4401 (AISI 316)	0.07	16–18%	10–14%	2.0–3.0%	–	≤2.0%	≤1.0%	0.045	0.015
1.4571 (AISI 316Ti)	0.08	16–18%	10–14%	2.0–3.0%	0.5–0.7%	≤2.0%	≤1.0%	0.045	0.015

Mechanical Properties (at room temperature)

Property	1.4401 (AISI 316)	1.4571 (AISI 316Ti)
Tensile Strength (Rm)	500–700 MPa	520–700 MPa
Yield Strength (Rp0.2)	≥200 MPa	≥210 MPa
Elongation (A5)	≥40%	≥35%
Hardness (HB)	≤217 HB	≤217 HB
Modulus of Elasticity	~193 GPa	~195 GPa

 

Corrosion Resistance

Both 1.4401 and 1.4571 are molybdenum-alloyed stainless steels with excellent resistance to pitting and crevice corrosion, especially in chloride-containing environments such as seawater and chemical processing media. Under general industrial corrosion conditions, their performance is similar; however, in prolonged high-temperature or strongly acidic environments, 1.4571 offers better resistance to intergranular corrosion due to its titanium stabilization.

 

Weldability

1.4401 has good weldability and is commonly used in general structural welding. However, it may become sensitive to intergranular corrosion in thick sections or after exposure to high temperatures. In contrast, 1.4571 contains titanium, which stabilizes carbides and prevents chromium depletion near weld zones, making it more suitable for applications where post-weld corrosion resistance is critical.

 

Is 1.4571 better than 1.4401 for high-temperature applications?
Yes, 1.4571 has better high-temperature resistance due to its titanium content, making it more suitable for thermal cycling and high-heat environments.

 

Is 1.4571 more expensive than 1.4401?
Yes, 1.4571 is generally more expensive due to its titanium content, which improves its performance in extreme conditions.

 

If you have a project requirement for 1.4404 or 1.4751 stainless steel, we welcome your order. GNEE maintains a large inventory of popular products for you to choose from. We process these products into a variety of practical product forms, including sheet, coil, tube, bar, and wire. For detailed chemical composition and free samples, please contact our factory today. We offer competitive pricing and excellent service.

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1.4401 Stainless Steel in Stock

Product Form	Thickness Range	Width / Diameter	Length	Surface Finish	Standard	Availability
1.4401 Stainless Steel Plates / Sheets	1.5 – 50 mm	up to 2000 mm	up to 6000 mm	2B, BA, No.1, No.4, HL	ASTM A240 / EN 10088	In stock
1.4401 Stainless Steel Coils / Strips	0.3 – 14 mm	up to 1500 mm	Coil form	2B, BA, No.4, HL	ASTM A240 / EN 10088	In stock
1.4401 Stainless Steel Pipes (Seamless / Welded)	6 – 610 mm OD	SCH 10 – SCH 80	up to 12000 mm	Annealed / Pickled	ASTM A312 / EN 10216-5	In stock
1.4401 Stainless Steel Round Bars	6 – 300 mm	–	up to 6000 mm	Bright / Black	ASTM A276 / EN 10088	In stock
1.4401 Stainless Steel Flanges & Fittings	DN15 – DN600	–	–	Forged / Machined	ASTM A182 / EN 1092	In stock