316L Austenitic Stainless Steel – Low-Carbon Corrosion & Weld Champion

Description

316L is the low-carbon version of 316, optimized for welded components that require both chloride resistance and post-weld corrosion stability. With a carbon content limited to ≤0.03%, it prevents intergranular corrosion in the heat-affected zone during welding, eliminating the need for post-weld annealing- a critical benefit for large or complex fabrications. It inherits the molybdenum-enhanced corrosion performance of 316, making it highly resistant to pitting, crevice, and general corrosion in chloride-rich environments, far outperforming 304 and 304L. Unlike standard 316, 316L offers enhanced ductility and weld integrity, making it the gold standard for critical applications in chemical, marine, and pharmaceutical industries, where equipment failure due to corrosion is unacceptable.

Chemical Composition (wt%)

C ≤ 0.03, Cr: 16.00-18.50, Ni: 10.00-14.00, Mo: 2.00-3.00, Mn ≤ 2.00, Si ≤ 1.00, P ≤ 0.045, S ≤ 0.030

Mechanical Properties

Tensile Strength ≥ 480 MPa, Yield Strength ≥ 175 MPa, Elongation ≥ 40%, Hardness ≤ 215 HB

Advantages

Sensitization-resistant (no post-weld annealing required); superior chloride corrosion resistance vs. 316/304; excellent weldability and ductility; non-magnetic; ideal for harsh corrosive welded structures; reliable in marine/chemical environments.

Applications

Chemical pipelines and tanks, marine vessels, medical devices, pharmaceutical systems, welded pressure components, and harsh chloride-rich industrial environments.

Equivalent Grades

AISI 316L, UNS S31603, EN 1.4404, GB 022Cr17Ni12Mo2, SUS316L

Stainless Steel Suppliers

If you have project requirements for stainless steel, we welcome your order. GNEE has a large inventory of popular products for you to choose from. It can be processed into various practical product forms, including plates, coils, tubes, bars, wires, etc. For detailed chemical composition information and free samples, please contact our factory immediately. We offer competitive prices and excellent service.Email: info@gneestainless.com

 

Testing and Documentation: Factory test certificate, EN 10204 3.1, chemical report, mechanical report, destructive testing report, non-destructive testing report, PMI test report, visual inspection report, third-party inspection report, NABL certified laboratory report.
Packaging: Wooden crate packaging, bubble wrap packaging, steel strapping, or packaging according to customer requirements.