Stainless Steel Grade 316

Considered to be one of the most popular steel alloys because of its adaptability, parts forged in stainless steel grade 316 are highly sought after. This alloy mostly consists of chromium (Cr) (18% – 20%) and nickel (Ni) (10.5% – 12%). Other elements that make up stainless steel 304 include manganese (Mn), silicon (Si), phosphorous (P), sulfur (S), and nitrogen (N). Stainless steel grade 304 is classified as UNS S31600.

There are three classes of grade 316 stainless steel, 316, 316L, and 316H. All the classes have roughly the same amount of element properties, except for carbon (C). This is the distinction between the classes, as 316L indicated a lower amount of carbon than standard 316, and 316H contains a higher amount of carbon. At Weldaloy, we forge low or carbonless stainless steel alloys. For 316 grade stainless steel we forge parts in 316 and 316L, and not 316H.

Known for its incredible strength and excellent corrosion resistance, stainless steel 316 is used in a variety of industries, including aerospace, marine, and the food industry.

Chemical Compostion

(%max., unless shown as range or min.)

316 CR Ni Mg Mo Si C N P S Fe
Min./Max.
16.0 - 18.0
10.0 - 14.0
2.0
2.0 - 3.0
0.75
0.08
0.1
0.045
0.03
Balance
316L CR Ni Mg Mo Si C N P S Fe
Min./Max.
16.0 - 18.0
10.0 - 14.0
2.0
2.0 - 3.0
0.75
0.030
0.1
0.045
0.03
Balance

Applicable Specifications

Product Specification
Forgings - Rolled Rings
ASME SA-182, ASTM A 182, ASTM A 240, ASTM A 276, ASTM A 473, ASTM A 829

Common Fabrication Processes

  • Jet and engine rocket components
  • Pressure vessels
  • Fasteners and Bolts
  • Shafts – Steps and Rotors
  • Hollow cylinders
  • Rings
  • Discs
 

Industries that use Grade 316 Stainless Steel Forgings:

  • Aerospace and Aviation Engineering
  • Chemical Processing
  • Marine
  • Oil and Gas
  • Power Generation
  • Vertical Lifts / Helicopters