What is SUS316 stainless steel?

Key Chemical Composition (wt%)

Element	Content Range
Chromium (Cr)	16.00–18.00
Nickel (Ni)	10.00–14.00
Molybdenum (Mo)	2.00–3.00
Carbon (C)	≤0.08
Manganese (Mn)	≤2.00
Silicon (Si)	≤1.00
Phosphorus (P)	≤0.045
Sulfur (S)	≤0.030

Main Properties

Superior Corrosion ResistanceThe addition of molybdenum is the core advantage of SUS316-it significantly boosts resistance to pitting and crevice corrosion in chloride-rich environments (e.g., seawater, coastal air, chemical processing fluids). It outperforms SUS304 in marine, pharmaceutical, and food processing applications.

Excellent Formability & WeldabilityLike SUS304, SUS316 has high ductility, suitable for deep drawing, bending, and stamping. It can be welded using common methods (TIG, MIG, SMAW) without post-weld heat treatment for most applications.

Mechanical PerformanceIn the annealed state, SUS316 has a tensile strength of ≥515 MPa, yield strength of ≥205 MPa, and elongation of ≥40%. Cold working can effectively increase its strength and hardness for structural use.

Temperature ResistanceIt maintains good mechanical properties at both low temperatures (down to -270℃) and moderate high temperatures (up to 870℃ in continuous service).

Typical Applications

Marine Engineering: Ship hull fittings, offshore platform components, seawater pipelines

Chemical & Pharmaceutical Industry: Reactor vessels, storage tanks, chemical transfer pipes

Food Processing: Equipment for pickling, brining, and high-salt food production

Medical Devices: Surgical instruments, implant components (biocompatible grade)

Architectural: Outdoor structures in coastal areas, decorative facades with high durability demands