The most extensively used type of stainless steel plate is 316 stainless steel, which belongs to the austenitic family of stainless steel. The corrosion resistance of 316 grade is higher than 304 grade because they include a higher concentration of nickel than 304 grades. The strong atmospheric corrosion resistance of the 316 plate makes it a good choice for marine applications.
These Stainless Steel 316 Plates, which are a component of the SEA-defined 300 Series and include a variety of austenitic chromium-nickel alloys, are the second-most often chosen stainless steels after Type 304. Widely accessible austenitic stainless steels like Type 316 have great form ability and weld ability, as well as good general corrosion resistance, good cryogenic toughness, and good cryogenic toughness.
Benefits and Applications of Stainless Steel 316 Plates
Corrosion Resistant Properties
Stainless Steel 316 Plates are more corrosion-resistant than other alloys like 304 stainless steel because of the presence of molybdenum. This prevents pitting from chemical conditions and enables the use of grade 316 stainless steel in extremely acidic and caustic environments which would otherwise corrode the metal. For instance, Stainless Steel 316 Plates can survive corrosive applications like vapor de-greasing and many other parts cleaning techniques as well as caustic solutions.
The cracking and pitting resistance of 316 stainless steel is higher. These characteristics also make SS 316 Plates perfect for use in pharmaceutical and medical applications.
Marine Applications
Stainless Steel 316 Plates is particularly better at resisting salt and chloride pitting. Stainless steel alloys, like grade 304 stainless steel, can develop pitting corrosion when exposed to salty sea breezes and seawater. For marine applications or anything involving chloride, it is imperative to use chloride-resistant metals, such as grade 316 stainless steel.
Metals can be particularly damaged by seawater and salt air. In addition to the harsh conditions of the sea and marine applications, chlorides like salt can corrode even the strongest metals. Even the grade 304 stainless steel’s protective oxide layer will be affected by salt, causing rust. Stainless Steel 316 Plates work best for procedures requiring chlorides or marine applications.
Long-Term Durability
The ability of a material to withstand damage from heat, corrosion, wear and tear, fatigue, and deformation is referred to as its durability. The robustness of SS 316 Plates guarantees its usage in demanding manufacturing environments. Due to its superior corrosion resistance, SS 316 has a modest advantage over other grades.
Heat Resistance
It offers high resistance to oxidation in continuous use up to 925 °C and intermittent service up to 870 °C. Continuous usage of 316 in the 425-860 °C range is not recommended if water corrosion resistance is required. SS 316 Plates can be used at greater temperatures and has a higher resistance to carbide precipitation.
