What is the difference between 316 SS and 17-4 PH ?
Aug 01, 2025
Leave a message
What is the difference between 17-4 PH and 316 SS?
17-4 PH and 316 stainless steels are distinct materials with different strengths and weaknesses. 17-4 PH is a precipitation-hardening stainless steel, known for its high strength and hardness, particularly after heat treatment. 316, on the other hand, is an austenitic stainless steel, renowned for its superior corrosion resistance, especially in chloride-containing environments
What is the equivalent of 17-4 PH stainless steel?
DIN 1.4542: A European equivalent with similar mechanical properties. AISI 630: Another precipitation-hardening stainless steel grade with comparable characteristics.
Chemical Composition of 316 SS and 17-4 PH (wt%)
| Element | 316 Stainless Steel | 17-4 PH Stainless Steel |
|---|---|---|
| Chromium (Cr) | 16.0 – 18.0 | 15.0 – 17.5 |
| Nickel (Ni) | 10.0 – 14.0 | 3.0 – 5.0 |
| Molybdenum (Mo) | 2.0 – 3.0 | - |
| Carbon (C) | ≤ 0.08 | ≤ 0.07 |
| Manganese (Mn) | ≤ 2.00 | ≤ 1.00 |
| Silicon (Si) | ≤ 1.00 | ≤ 1.00 |
| Phosphorus (P) | ≤ 0.045 | ≤ 0.040 |
| Sulfur (S) | ≤ 0.030 | ≤ 0.030 |
| Copper (Cu) | - | 3.0 – 5.0 |
| Niobium + Tantalum (Nb + Ta) | - | 0.15 – 0.45 |
Is 17-4 PH corrosion resistant than 316?
Unlike 316-L, 17-4PH exhibits a lower resistance to corrosion. While still suitable for use in moderately corrosive environments, it may necessitate additional coating or plating. Common applications for 17-4PH include aircraft parts, automotive parts, precision industrial equipment, gears, and more
Mechanical Properties of 316 SS and 17-4 PH hot rolled plate
| Property | 316 Stainless Steel | 17-4 PH Stainless Steel (H900 Condition) |
|---|---|---|
| Tensile Strength | ≥ 515 MPa (75 ksi) | ≥ 1170 MPa (170 ksi) |
| Yield Strength (0.2% Offset) | ≥ 205 MPa (30 ksi) | ≥ 1030 MPa (150 ksi) |
| Elongation (in 50 mm) | ≥ 40% | ≥ 10% |
| Hardness (Rockwell C) | ≤ 22 | 40 – 45 |
| Modulus of Elasticity | ~193 GPa (28 × 10⁶ psi) | ~200 GPa (29 × 10⁶ psi) |
Physical Properties of 316 SS sheets and 17-4 PH plate
| Property | 316 Stainless Steel | 17-4 PH Stainless Steel |
|---|---|---|
| Density | 8.0 g/cm³ | 7.75 g/cm³ |
| Melting Point | 1370 – 1398 °C (2500 – 2550 °F) | 1427 – 1538 °C (2600 – 2800 °F) |
| Thermal Conductivity (at 20°C) | 16.2 W/(m·K) | 15.1 W/(m·K) |
| Specific Heat Capacity (at 20°C) | 0.50 J/(g·K) | 0.46 J/(g·K) |
| Coefficient of Thermal Expansion (20 – 100°C) | 16.0 × 10⁻⁶/°C | 10.8 × 10⁻⁶/°C |
| Electrical Resistivity | 74 × 10⁻⁸ Ω·m | 80 × 10⁻⁸ Ω·m |
What is the price of 17-4 PH stainless steel?
The price of 17-4 PH stainless steel varies depending on factors such as product form (plate, bar, tube, etc.), size, quality grade, and quantity. Bulk prices range from approximately $20,000 to $25,000 per ton.
17-4 PH vs 410 Stainless Steel- What's the Difference
Some of the key differences between 17-4 PH and 410 stainless steel include the following: 17-4 PH has a higher chromium content than 410 stainless steel, which gives it better corrosion resistance. 17-4 PH has a higher nickel content than 410 stainless steel, which gives it better strength and hardness.
Need high-strength or corrosion-resistant stainless steel plates?
your trusted stainless steel supplier-GNEE
(What GNEE Offers)：
✅ Full range of 17-4 PH & 316 stainless steel plates, from 3mm to 100mm thickness
✅ Custom sizes with laser cutting, waterjet cutting, and shearing
✅ Surface finishes: 2B, No.1, Brushed, Mirror Polish, or Custom
✅ Heat treatment services: Solution annealing, age hardening (for 17-4 PH)
✅ Mill Test Certificates (EN 10204 3.1/3.2) and third-party inspections (SGS, BV)
✅ Fast global shipping with seaworthy wooden pallets and protective packaging
Send Inquiry