SUS316L Stainless Steel: Low-Carbon Corrosion Resistant Grade

Grade 316L, the low carbon version of 316 and is immune from sensitization (grain boundary carbide precipitation). Thus it is extensively used in heavy gauge welded components (over about 6mm). There is commonly no appreciable price difference between 316 and 316L stainless steel.

 

The austenitic structure also gives these grades excellent toughness, even down to cryogenic temperatures.

 

Compared to chromium-nickel austenitic stainless steels, 316L stainless steel offers higher creep, stress to rupture and tensile strength at elevated temperatures.

 

Composition

Table 1. Composition ranges for 316L stainless steel.

Grade		C	Mn	Si	P	S	Cr	Mo	Ni	N
316L	Min	-	-	-	-	-	16.0	2.00	10.0	-
	Max	0.03	2.0	0.75	0.045	0.03	18.0	3.00	14.0	0.10