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What is the Meaning of SA 240 TP 316?

 

SA 240 TP 316refers to a specific grade of austenitic stainless steel specified under ASME SA-240/SA-240M, a standard published by the American Society of Mechanical Engineers (ASME) for chromium and chromium-nickel stainless steel plates, sheets, and strips used in pressure vessels, boilers, and general corrosive service. The designation breaks down as follows:

  • SA: Indicates an ASME-adopted specification, aligned with ASTM A240/A240M, part of the ASME Boiler and Pressure Vessel Code (BPVC) Section II, Part A (Ferrous Material Specifications).
  • 240: Refers to the specific ASME standard number for stainless steel plates, sheets, and strips.
  • TP: Stands for "Type," used in ASME to denote the specific stainless steel grade (aligned with AISI designations).
  • 316: Identifies the grade, a molybdenum-bearing austenitic stainless steel (UNS S31600, EN 1.4401) with 2-3% molybdenum for enhanced pitting and crevice corrosion resistance, particularly in chloride-rich environments, compared to SA 240 GR 304.

SA 240 TP 316 is equivalent to AISI 316, SUS316 (JIS), and 06Cr17Ni12Mo2 (GB), known for its non-magnetic properties and a density of 8.00 g/cm³. It’s ideal for harsh environments like marine, chemical, and pharmaceutical applications. Gangsteel’s sa 240 gr 316l page provides related information, as 316L is a low-carbon variant of 316.

 

Chemical Composition of SA 240 TP 316

The chemical composition of SA 240 TP 316, as per ASME SA 240, ensures superior corrosion resistance:

Element

Range (%)

Carbon (C)

0.00 - 0.08

Manganese (Mn)

0.00 - 2.00

Silicon (Si)

0.00 - 0.75

Phosphorus (P)

0.00 - 0.045

Sulfur (S)

0.00 - 0.030

Chromium (Cr)

16.00 - 18.00

Nickel (Ni)

10.00 - 14.00

Molybdenum (Mo)

2.00 - 3.00

Nitrogen (N)

0.00 - 0.10

Iron (Fe)

Balance

  • Molybdenum: Enhances pitting and crevice corrosion resistance in chloride environments (e.g., seawater).
  • Chromium: Forms a passive oxide layer for corrosion resistance.
  • Nickel: Ensures austenitic structure and non-magnetic properties.
  • Carbon: Limited to ≤0.08% for weldability, though SA 240 TP 316L (≤0.03%) is preferred for critical welds. See sa 240 gr 316l.

For detailed specifications, refer to our SS 304 data sheet for comparison with SA 240 GR 304.

 

Mechanical Properties of SA 240 TP 316

The mechanical properties of SA 240 TP 316 for annealed plates (8-75 mm thick) support its use in demanding applications:

Property

Value (Minimum)

Notes

Tensile Strength

515 MPa (75 ksi)

Strength before fracture

Yield Strength (0.2% Offset)

205 MPa (30 ksi)

Stress at plastic deformation onset

Elongation (A5, 50 mm)

40%

High ductility for forming

Hardness (Brinell)

≤ 217 HB

Slightly harder than 304

Hardness (Rockwell B)

≤ 95 HRB

Supports machinability

Cold-working can increase tensile strength (up to 800-850 MPa) but reduces ductility. For high-temperature applications, explore sa 240 gr 304h or sa 240 gr 321.

 

Physical Properties

  • Density: 8.00 g/cm³, identical to SA 240 GR 304, ideal for lightweight designs.
  • Melting Point: ~1370-1400°C, suitable for processing.
  • Thermal Conductivity: 16.2 W/m·K, moderate for heat transfer.
  • Coefficient of Thermal Expansion: 16.5 × 10⁻⁶/K (slightly lower than 304’s 17.2 ×10⁻⁶/K).
  • Electrical Resistivity: 0.74 × 10⁻⁶ Ω·m.

These properties support applications in harsh environments.

 

Corrosion Resistance and Weldability

SA 240 TP 316 offers superior corrosion resistance compared to SA 240 GR 304:

  • Chloride Environments: Molybdenum (2-3%) enhances pitting and crevice corrosion resistance, ideal for marine, coastal, and chemical applications.
  • General Environments: Excellent in atmospheric conditions, freshwater, and mild acids (food-grade), outperforming SS204 vs SS 304.

Weldability is good with ER316 or ER316L fillers, but SA 240 TP 316L is preferred for critical welds to avoid sensitization. For comparison, SA 240 GR 304 is less resistant to chlorides. For harsher environments, explore sa 240 gr 317l.

 

Applications of SA 240 TP 316

SA 240 TP 316 is used in:

  • Chemical Processing: Vessels and piping for corrosive chemicals.
  • Marine Applications: Ship components and coastal structures.
  • Pharmaceuticals: Equipment requiring hygiene and corrosion resistance.
  • Food Processing: Tanks and conveyors, though less common than 304 due to higher cost.
  • Medical Devices: Non-magnetic surgical instruments.

For milder environments, consider sa 240 gr 304.

 

Pricing and Availability at Gangsteel

As of October 15, 2025, SA 240 TP 316 plate prices (2B finish, 3-6mm) range from $2.50-$3.50/kg globally, 10-20% higher than SA 240 GR 304 ($1.55-$3.50/kg) due to molybdenum. Gangsteel offers competitive pricing starting at $2.50/kg FOB (MOQ 1 ton) for SA 240 TP 316 plates, with standard sizes (e.g., 4’x8’, 5’x10’) and custom cuts. Contact admin@gangsteel.com for quotes.

 

Why Choose Gangsteel?

Gangsteel provides certified SA 240 TP 316 plates with competitive pricing and a 600+ ton inventory for global delivery. For quotes or to learn more about SA 240 TP 316, visit our astm a 240 stainless plate page or email admin@gangsteel.com.

 

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