In addition a number of other chemicals may be present but these are expressed as maximum permited levels with the exception of the increased quantity of carbon required in 316H - i.e. If the steel is to be deep drawn a higher percentage is better (9% or more). Where the steel is to be stretched formed a lower percentage (8%) of nickel should be selected. The nickel also improves high-temperature oxidation resistance makes the steel resistant to stress corrosion cracking. This is added to make the Austenitic structure more stable at normal temperatures. Chromium is the essential chemical in all stainless steel and it is that which forms the thin passive layer that makes the metal 'stainless'ģ16 also contains 10-14% Nickel (Ni). However, it is the addition of 2% Molybdenum that provides the increased corrosion resistance.ģ16 contains 16 - 18% Chromium (Cr). The main constituents of 316 stainless steel - other than iron - are Chromium and Nickel. It is practically used almost everywhere: Finally, it has excellent strength and toughness at cryogenic temperatures. It has excellent creep and rupture strength at higher temperatures compared to 304/304L.

This is where intergranular corrosion comes into picture and having a lower carbon version makes it difficult for Chromium Carbide to precipitate in the 797 to 1580 degF (425 to 860 degC) range when the welding is going on for a long time due to the heavy gauge. Dual grade becomes important if heavy gauge welding is performed. It also has an excellent resistance to intergranular corrosion in as-welded condition. That property is also useful in marine environments. Due to its superior chloride pitting resistance, it is commonly used in applications involving chlorides or halides. The addition of Molybdenum significantly increases general corrosion resistance as compared to 304/304L and more importantly, increases the chloride pitting resistance.ģ16/316L has excellent forming and welding characteristics.

It is an important alloy when it comes to chloride environments and many other chemical process industries. Alloy 316/316L is an austenitic alloy and similar to 304/304L is used in a wide range of applications.