316L Stainless Steel | Intamet Ltd
316L Stainless Steel is a type of stainless steel with low carbon content, good corrosion resistance, and high strength.
It is commonly used in medical implants, marine equipment, and chemical processing.
316L is a type of stainless steel that is known for its excellent corrosion resistance and strength. It is commonly used in a variety of applications, including medical implants, marine equipment, and chemical processing.
One of the key characteristics of 316L is its low carbon content. This gives the steel a higher resistance to intergranular corrosion, which can occur when the steel is heated to high temperatures. Additionally, the low carbon content also makes it less prone to sensitisation, which is a phenomenon that can lead to corrosion in certain environments.
Another important feature of 316L is its high resistance to corrosion in a wide range of environments, including both fresh and salt water, as well as most chemicals. This makes it ideal for use in marine and chemical processing applications.
316L Stainless Steel is also used in a variety of medical applications, particularly in surgical implants. The steel's biocompatibility, strength, and corrosion resistance make it well suited for use in the human body.
316L is strong and flexible, making it ideal for various manufacturing and construction uses.
316L is a strong and versatile material with low carbon content. It is highly resistant to corrosion and can be used in many different applications.
Physical & Mechanical Properties of 316L Stainless Steel
Physical Properties:
- Density: 8.0 g/cm3
- Melting Point: 1454 - 1538°C (2650 - 2800°F)
Mechanical Properties (Annealed condition)
- Tensile Strength: 515 MPa (75 ksi)
- Yield Strength: 205 MPa (30 ksi)
- Elongation: 40%
- Hardness (Brinell): 217
- Modulus of Elasticity: 193 GPa (28 x 106 psi)
The above properties can change depending on the condition, heat treatment or cold work. 316L stainless steel is commonly used for making strong equipment and structures due to its good forming and welding properties.
Chemical Composition of 316L Stainless Steel
The chemical composition of 316L stainless steel typically includes:
- Carbon (C): 0.03% max
- Manganese (Mn): 2.00% max
- Silicon (Si): 1.00% max
- Chromium (Cr): 16.00-18.00%
- Nickel (Ni): 10.00-14.00%
- Molybdenum (Mo): 2.00-3.00%
- Phosphorus (P): 0.045% max
- Sulfur (S): 0.030% max
- Nitrogen (N): 0.1% max
- Iron (Fe): balance
Please note that the above composition is just a general representation and it may vary slightly depending on the manufacturer or the standard used.
316L stainless steel can have different properties based on its composition and manufacturing process, but typically it has certain properties.
Variants of 316
There are different types of 316 stainless steel made for specific uses or to enhance certain material qualities. Some of the most common variants include:
- 316Ti: This variant of 316 is alloyed with titanium to improve its resistance to corrosion, particularly in environments with high temperatures and high concentrations of chlorides.
- 316L: This variant of 316 is low carbon, for improved resistance to intergranular corrosion and improved welding characteristics
- 316H: This variant of 316 is a high carbon version, which improves its strength and hardness. It is often used in high-stress applications such as valves and pumps.
- 316LN: This variant of 316 is nitrogen-alloyed to improve its strength and toughness. It is often used in high-stress applications such as aerospace and nuclear power plants.
- 316F: This variant of 316 is free-machining, with added sulfur, it is often used in the manufacture of gears, bearings, and other precision components.
- 316L Mod: This variant of 316 is modified to improve its machinability. It is often used in the manufacture of gears, bearings, and other precision components.
- 316L-Si: This variant of 316 is alloyed with silicon to improve its resistance to corrosion and oxidation. It is often used in high-temperature applications such as furnace components and heat exchangers.
Please note that the above variants are just a general representation, and other variants exist to meet specific requirements, such as 316L-Mo for improved resistance to pitting and crevice corrosion, 316L-Cu for improved resistance to stress corrosion cracking.