FAQs

Differences Between Stainless Steel Grade 304 And Grade 316

There is stainless steel grade 304, and then there is grade 316.

The composition of stainless steel grade 304 has 18-20% Chromium (Cr) and 8-12% Nickel (Ni). Whereas stainless steel 316 has 16-18% Chromium (Cr) and 10-14% Nickel (Ni) as well as 2-3% Molybdenum (Mo).

What’s the real difference between 304 versus 316 stainless steel? Its composition means stainless steel grade 316 has a higher resistance to pitting and corrosion in non-oxidising acids. This grade is generally known as a marine grade, which means it can be submerged in salt water or exposed to harsh outdoor conditions. One way to think about the differences between the two types of stainless steel is that the latter can handle salt water and the former is best for hygienic fresh water applications.

Stainless steel grade 304 is used for general applications including sanitary process lines for food and beverages.

There is stainless steel grade 304, and then there is grade 316.

The composition of stainless steel grade 304 has 18-20% Chromium (Cr) and 8-12% Nickel (Ni). Whereas stainless steel 316 has 16-18% Chromium (Cr) and 10-14% Nickel (Ni) as well as 2-3% Molybdenum (Mo).

What’s the real difference between 304 versus 316 stainless steel? Its composition means stainless steel grade 316 has a higher resistance to pitting and corrosion in non-oxidising acids. This grade is generally known as a marine grade, which means it can be submerged in salt water or exposed to harsh outdoor conditions. One way to think about the differences between the two types of stainless steel is that the latter can handle salt water and the former is best for hygienic fresh water applications.

Stainless steel grade 304 is used for general applications including sanitary process lines for food and beverages.