The Key Distinguishing Characteristic of 316 and Stainless Steel 316L Tubes

What distinguishes stainless steels 316 Tubes and Stainless Steel 316L Tubes from one another? The solution is shockingly straightforward.

It’s the amount of carbon. Carbon content in stainless steel grade 316 is limited to 0.08%. Maximum carbon concentration for 316L stainless is 0.03%.

How do you keep track of what is what? There is little carbon in Stainless Steel 316L Tubes.

Keep in mind that these are the same materials used in AISI 316 and 316L as well as SS316 and SS316L. Whatever way you cut it, the “L” makes a difference.

316 and 316L Stainless Steel: Comparative Strength

It’s crucial to first comprehend what unites both alloys, and it’s not only a shared numerical value, in order to comprehend what distinguishes them from one another.
On four crucial fronts, both stainless steels have traits in common:

1. Corrosion Resistance

2. Workability

3. Weldability

4. Price

1. RESISTANCE TO CORROSION

Both 316 and Stainless Steel 316L Tubes have good corrosion resistance, making them both suitable for applications where chloride exposure is a requirement. This is so that the alloys can resist acids and chloride without compromising, thanks to the makeup of both classes, which includes nickel and molybdenum. Both metals are among the few deemed “marine grade stainless steel” due to their high corrosion resistance.

2. WORKABILITY

Both stainless steel alloys are thought to be stronger. Because they include nickel, they may be manufactured at lower temperatures while maintaining their ductility when being rolled, pulled, or bent. They become non-hardenable when heated and are simple to run through a die for shaping.

3. WELDABILITY

For welding, both alloys work well. When welded, neither stainless steel succumbs to excessive heat cracking like other metals do.

4. PRICE

Both stainless steels are around the same price despite one having less carbon than the other.