How Much Does 1.4401 (316) Stainless Steel Cost per kg? Pricing Guide
What Is 1.4401?
1.4401 is the EN designation for AISI 316, an austenitic stainless steel grade (X5CrNiMo17-12-2, C ≤0.07%). It offers excellent corrosion resistance, especially in chloride environments, thanks to molybdenum (2–3%). It is widely used in chemical processing, food and beverage, pharmaceuticals and marine applications.
Important distinction: 1.4404 (X2CrNiMo17-12-2, C ≤0.03%) is the designation for 316L. The two grades are often confused; the low-carbon version resists sensitisation after welding better than 1.4401. Verify the grade on the MTC before ordering.
Chemical Composition of 1.4401 Stainless Steel(wt%)
| Element | Content |
|---|---|
| C | ≤0.07 |
| Si | ≤1.00 |
| Mn | ≤2.00 |
| P | ≤0.045 |
| S | ≤0.015 |
| Cr | 16.5‑18.5 |
| Ni | 10.0‑13.0 |
| Mo | 2.00‑2.50 |
Equivalent Grade Table of 1.4401 Stainless Steel
| Standard | Grade |
|---|---|
| EN | 1.4401 (X5CrNiMo17‑12‑2) |
| ASTM | 316 / UNS S31600 |
| GB | 06Cr17Ni12Mo2 (S31608) |
| JIS | SUS316 |
Room‑Temperature Mechanical Properties of 1.4401 Stainless Steel (Solution‑annealed)
| Property | Value |
|---|---|
| Tensile Strength | ≥500 MPa |
| 0.2% Yield Strength | ≥200 MPa |
| Elongation A | ≥40 % |
1.4401 (316 / UNS S31600) Stainless Steel Physical Properties
| Property | Value |
|---|---|
| Density | 7.98 g/cm³ |
| Melting Range | 1370‑1400 °C |
| Specific Heat Capacity (20 °C) | 500 J/(kg·K) |
| Thermal Conductivity (20 °C) | 16.0 W/(m·K) |
| Electrical Resistivity (20 °C) | 0.74 μΩ·m |
| Coefficient of Thermal Expansion (20‑100 °C) | 15.9 ×10⁻⁶ /°C |
| Coefficient of Thermal Expansion (20‑500 °C) | 17.5 ×10⁻⁶ /°C |
| Modulus of Elasticity (Young's Modulus) | 193 GPa |
| Poisson's Ratio | 0.3 |
Price Reference of 1.4401 Stainless Steel (Market Snapshot - Request a Dated Quote)
| Product type | Reference price (USD/kg) |
|---|---|
| Hot-rolled sheet/plate | $3.50 – $4.20 |
| Cold-rolled sheet | $4.00 – $5.00 |
| Pipes & tubes | $3.80 – $4.80 |
These are 2025-2026 market reference ranges. Stainless prices move with nickel and molybdenum markets; the alloy surcharge, thickness, order volume, surface finish and destination all affect the final price. Always request a dated quotation.
Key Factors Affecting the Price
1.Raw material costs.
Nickel and molybdenum prices strongly influence 1.4401 cost; nickel fluctuations can cause significant price changes.
2.Product form and processing.
Cold-rolled sheets or highly polished surfaces command higher prices due to additional processing steps.
3.Thickness.
Thinner gauges often cost more per kg due to more complex manufacturing and finishing processes.
4.Geography and trade.
Import tariffs, local taxes and shipping costs impact the final price depending on the buyer's region.
How to Get the Best Price
Purchase in bulk or under long-term contracts.
Monitor raw-material price trends to time your purchase.
Build relationships with trusted suppliers and compare dated quotations.
Verify the grade (1.4401 vs 1.4404) and form on the material certificate.
Application Scenarios of 1.4401 (316 / UNS S31600)
1.Chemical & Petrochemical Industry
Process piping, reactor linings, storage tanks and heat exchangers for organic acids and salt‑containing media; superior pitting resistance vs 304.
2.Water Treatment & Auxiliary Desalination Equipment
Water purification units, filter housings and pipelines for intermittent seawater exposure; long‑term seawater immersion is not permitted.
3.Food & Pharmaceutical Equipment
Food processing machinery, fermenters, pharmaceutical vessels and process piping for hygienic service.
4.Paper & Dyeing Industry
Dye vats and slurry handling components to resist chloride‑bearing processing media.
5.General Industrial Components
Heat exchanger tubes, flanges, fittings, plates and bars; moderate‑temperature boiler parts, avoid prolonged exposure at 450‑850 °C.
Chemical Stainless Steel Storage Tanks and Pipelines
Fermentation tanks for food and pharmaceuticals
Seawater desalination pipeline
If you need specific information, tell me:
Are you looking for mechanical properties, welding guidelines, or equivalent grades?
What form (sheet, bar, pipe) are you working with?
FAQ
1.Can 1.4401 resist seawater?
It works for intermittent seawater splash exposure. Not suitable for permanent seawater immersion, pitting corrosion will occur. For continuous seawater service, select duplex steel 2205 or 2507.
2. Is 1.4401 magnetic?
Non‑magnetic in solution‑annealed delivery condition. Slight magnetism may appear after cold working or bending, this is normal and does not indicate wrong material.
3.What is the maximum operating temperature for 1.4401?
Max continuous service temperature around 870 °C. Long‑term exposure between 450‑850 °C causes sensitization risk. Low‑carbon 316L is recommended for this temperature range.
4. What advantages does 1.4401 have over 304 (1.4301)?
Molybdenum addition improves pitting, chloride and chemical corrosion resistance. Better performance under coastal salt spray and mild chemical media, but higher cost than 304.
5.Can 1.4401 be used for heat exchanger tubes?
Yes. Specify standard such as ASTM A269 or A213 when ordering. 1.4404 (316L) is recommended for welded heat exchangers.
Send Inquiry