Stainless steel pipe is a hollow long round steel, which is widely used in petroleum, chemical, medical, food, light industry, mechanical instrumentation and other industrial pipelines and mechanical structural parts. In addition, when the bending and torsion strength are the same, the weight is lighter, so it is also widely used in the manufacture of mechanical parts and engineering structures.

316 / 316L STAINLESS STEEL PIPE

These grades of austenitic stainless steels are similar to 304 and 304L, but with the addition of molybdenum. The addition of molybdenum improves the alloys corrosion resistance, particularly with higher resistance to pitting and crevice corrosion in chloride environments. The austenitic structure allows excellent toughness, even down to cryogenic temperatures. These grades have excellent weld-ability, with or without the addition of filler metal. 

316 and 316L stainless steel alloys are both marine-grade steels, but they do possess some key differences. 316L has a lower proportion of carbon in its composition. To qualify as 316L stainless steel, the amount of carbon cannot exceed 0.03%. This decreases the risk of carbon precipitation, making it a better option for welding to ensure maximum corrosion resistance.

316 stainless steel has a mid-range level of carbon and contains between 2% and 3% molybdenum, which increases resistance to corrosion, acidic elements, and high temperatures. Both materials have excellent malleability, meaning they perform well in bending, stretching, deep drawing, and spinning.

How to Choose Between 316 or 316L Stainless Steel
When determining whether to use 316 or 316L stainless steel for your application, it is important to consider the following factors:

Corrosion Resistance
316L is the superior choice for high corrosion and high temperature applications. Since 316L contains less carbon than 316, it has better intergranular corrosion resistance, meaning its welds won’t decay, unlike with 316 stainless steel.

Cost
Although 316L contains less carbon, 316 and 316L stainless steels cost approximately the same.

Magnetic Properties
316 stainless steel has very low responsiveness to magnetic fields. Unlike basic stainless steels, which are ferromagnetic, most stainless steel varieties (including 316) are austenitic — or effectively nonmagnetic.

However, some 316 stainless steel goods can undergo processes, like cold forming and welding, where the austenitic crystal structure is transformed into ferromagnetic martensite. 316L steel is more susceptible to gaining some degree of magnetism.

Practical Applications
Both types of stainless steel are useful in a wide variety of industries. However, 316 is primarily used in construction and infrastructure because it is strong, resistant to pitting, and corrosion resistant in most circumstances. 316L is popular for pharmaceutical and photography equipment because it can withstand welding and corrosive chemicals.

Mechanical Properties

Physical Properties (Room Temperature)

Chemical Composition (% by weight)

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