Stainless Steel 316 Chemical Resistance

SS 316 (1.4401/1.4404) is the "marine grade" stainless steel with excellent corrosion resistance. The molybdenum content provides superior protection against chlorides and pitting compared to 304.

900+ chemicals tested 20°C & 50°C data Marine grade

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Excellent (A)

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Good (B)

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Limited (C)

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Not Recommended (D)

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SS 316 Properties

Grade AISI 316 / 1.4401 (EU)

Low Carbon Variant 316L / 1.4404

Max Temperature 870°C (1600°F) intermittent

Molybdenum Content 2-3% (pitting resistance)

Density 8.0 g/cm³

Magnetic No (austenitic)

Weldable Yes (use 316L for welding)

Cost Moderate-High

Common Applications

Marine Equipment

Boat fittings, coastal structures, offshore platforms

Pharmaceutical

Process vessels, reactors, cleanroom equipment

Food Processing

Tanks, conveyors, brewing equipment, dairy

⚠️ Not Recommended For

SS 316 can corrode when exposed to:

Hydrochloric acid (any concentration)
Hot concentrated sulfuric acid
Ferric chloride solutions

Bleach / sodium hypochlorite
Seawater at elevated temperatures
Reducing acids without oxidizers

Tip: For highly aggressive chloride environments, consider upgrading to duplex stainless steel (2205) or super-austenitic grades (904L, 254 SMO).

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