1.4401 X5CrNiMol17-12-2 AISI 316 equivalent material

What is X5CrNiMol17-12-2 material?

AISI 316 is an austenitic stainless steel, also known as 1.4401, BS 316S31, and X5CrNiMo17-12-2. This corrosion-resistant steel belongs to the chromium-nickel-molybdenum alloy family. It can be used at temperatures up to 550°C and is also suitable for low-temperature applications. The main difference between AISI 316 (1.4401, X5CrNiMo17-12-2) and similar materials such as 316L / 1.4404 lies in its higher carbon content. This material is suitable for cold forming (cold block forming) but is rarely used for cold heading. Typical industrial applications include the food industry, construction industry, and automotive industry.

 

Is 1.4401 the same as AISI 316?

Yes, 1.4401 is the European (EN) equivalent of AISI 316. They are the same type of austenitic stainless steel, with 1.4401 being the designation under the European standard and AISI 316 being the designation under the American Iron and Steel Institute standard. Both grades are known for their enhanced corrosion resistance due to the addition of molybdenum.

 

Properties and chemical composition of stainless steel AISI 316 / 1.4401

C	Si	Mn	P	S	N	Cr	Cu	Mo	Ni	Ti
≤ 0,07	≤ 1,00	≤ 2,00	≤ 0,045	≤ 0,03	≤ 0,10	16,5 - 18,5	-	2,00 - 2,50	10,0 - 13,0	-

 

Mechanical Properties

Property	Typical Value
Tensile Strength	520–720 MPa
Yield Strength (0.2%)	≥ 220 MPa
Elongation	≥ 45%
Hardness	≤ 95 HRB
Density	8.0 g/cm³
Max Service Temperature	870°C

 

Heat Treatment and Hot Forming

Solution Heat Treatment (Air or Water Cooling): 1020-1120 °C
Hot Forming (Air Cooling): 1200-900 °C

 

Machinability
AISI 316 / 1.4401 stainless steel has moderate machinability. Due to its higher carbon content, its machinability is slightly worse than that of 1.4404 stainless steel.

 

Corrosion Resistance
AISI 316 (1.4401 / X5CrNiMol17-12-2) stainless steel has good corrosion resistance in natural environments (PREN value 23.1 to 28.5). At room temperature, 316/BS 316S31 stainless steel can also withstand corrosion from low concentrations of nitric acid and sulfuric acid. However, it is not resistant to seawater corrosion and pitting corrosion may occur in seawater. Due to its higher carbon content, it is also not resistant to intergranular corrosion.

What is the hardness value of 1.4401/AISI 316 stainless steel?

The hardness value of 1.4401/AISI 316 stainless steel is typically in the range of 25-39 HRC. As an austenitic stainless steel, it cannot be hardened by heat treatment, but its hardness can be increased by cold working.

 

What are the applications of X5CrNiMo17-12-2/AISI 316 stainless steel?

1.4401 (X5CrNiMo17-12-2) steel is widely used in industries such as chemical, marine, food processing, and pharmaceuticals. In addition, it is used in medical implants, surgical instruments, and various other precision applications.

 

Is 1.4401 good for marine use?

Yes, 1.4401 (also known as AISI 316) is suitable for many marine applications, especially in coastal and splash zones, due to its excellent corrosion resistance. However, prolonged immersion in warm seawater is not recommended, as it is prone to pitting corrosion in warm chloride environments. For applications requiring long-term direct contact with seawater, higher-performance steels such as super austenitic stainless steel or super duplex stainless steel are more suitable.

 

What is the price of 1.4401/AISI 316 stainless steel?

Due to continuous fluctuation in nickel and molybdenum prices, 1.4401/316 remains one of the most price-sensitive stainless steels.
Current global market price (reference):
Cold-rolled 316 sheet: USD 3.8 – 5.2 per kg

Hot-rolled 316 plates: USD 3.2 – 4.6 per kg

316 round bar: USD 3.5 – 4.8 per kg

 

If you have any project needs for 316L 1.4404 stainless steel bars, please feel free to place an order. GNEE has a large inventory of popular products for you to choose from. They can be processed into various practical product forms, including plates, coils, pipes, bars, and wires. For detailed chemical composition and free samples, please contact our factory immediately. We offer competitive prices and excellent service.