Duplex 2205 vs. SUS316: Which Alloy Fits Your Project?

Duplex 2205: The High-Performance Choice

Pros: Double strength of 316, excellent resistance to pitting, crevice, and stress corrosion cracking (SCC), higher molybdenum/nitrogen content.

Cons: More expensive, harder to form/weld (needs controlled heat), not ideal for prolonged sub-zero or very high-temp service.

Best For: Offshore platforms, heat exchangers, chemical tankers, pressure vessels in aggressive chloride/sour environments.

SUS 316 (or 316L): The Versatile Standard

Pros: Great general corrosion resistance (especially to chlorides), excellent formability/weldability, lower cost, widely used in many industries.

Cons: Lower strength and SCC resistance than 2205.

Best For: Marine hardware, food processing, medical devices, architectural trim, tanks.

Quick Decision Guide

Need Maximum Strength & SCC Resistance? Go with 2205.

Easy Fabrication & Cost-Effective? Stick with 316.

Chloride-Heavy Marine/Offshore? 2205 (or even Super Duplex) for toughness; 316 for standard parts.

Food/Pharma/Medical? 316L is the established, biocompatible choice.