316L Stainless Steel Composition & Chloride Resistance Properties
316L is an austenitic stainless steel specified in ASTM A240 and GB/T 4237, and is the low-carbon version of the standard 316 grade. Containing approximately 16–18% chromium, 10–14% nickel and 2–3% molybdenum, it offers improved resistance to chloride pitting and crevice corrosion compared with 304 and 304L.
The low carbon content of 0.03% maximum reduces the risk of chromium carbide precipitation during welding, so the grade retains its corrosion resistance in the as-welded condition without requiring post-weld solution annealing. It is commonly used in chemical process equipment, food and beverage lines, pharmaceutical systems, and coastal installations.
316L is available as plates, coils, strips, and tubes. It is widely used in heat exchanger plates, storage tanks, process piping, and architectural components exposed to moderately aggressive media.
Chemical Composition
316L is produced with carbon limited to 0.03% maximum, chromium at 16.0–18.0%, nickel at 10.0–14.0%, and molybdenum at 2.00–3.00%. Silicon and manganese support deoxidation and hot working behaviour, while phosphorus and sulfur are held at low levels to preserve weld quality and surface finish. The molybdenum addition is the key difference from the 304 family and is what raises resistance to chloride environments.
Mechanical Properties
316L provides a minimum yield strength of 170 MPa, a minimum tensile strength of 485 MPa, and a minimum elongation of 40% in the annealed condition. The grade is not hardenable by heat treatment and is supplied in the solution-annealed state. Its ductility and toughness support cold forming, deep drawing, and bending operations, and the low carbon content maintains intergranular corrosion resistance after welding.
Available Size Range
Thickness: 0.3–120 mm Width: 1000–2000 mm Length: 2000–12000 mm
Stock & Processing Services
Cutting • Shearing • Plasma cutting • Edge preparation • Surface finishing • Customized fabrication
Applications
- Chemical process equipment and reactors
- Food, dairy and beverage processing lines
- Pharmaceutical and sanitary piping systems
- Heat exchanger plates and condensers
- Storage tanks and pressure vessels
- Coastal and architectural components