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304 and 316 stainless steel are both austenitic grades in the 300 series, known for their corrosion resistance, durability, and non-magnetic properties. 304 is the most commonly used stainless steel for general applications, while 316 is an upgraded version with added molybdenum for better performance in harsh environments. Both are weldable and formable, but their differences in composition lead to variations in strength, corrosion resistance, and cost. Gangsteel, a leading manufacturer and exporter in China, supplies both grades compliant with ASME SA240 and ASTM A240.
As specialists in ASME SA240 stainless steel plates, Gangsteel offers customized solutions for global clients. This guide compares 304 and 316 stainless steel based on composition, properties, applications, and more.
The key difference is the addition of molybdenum in 316, which enhances corrosion resistance, especially against chlorides. The table below shows the typical composition:
|
Element |
304 (%) |
316 (%) |
Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
|
Chromium (Cr) |
18-20 |
16-18 |
304 has more Cr for oxidation resistance. |
|
Nickel (Ni) |
8-10.5 |
10-14 |
Higher Ni in 316 improves ductility. |
|
Molybdenum (Mo) |
0 |
2-3 |
Mo in 316 provides pitting resistance in chlorides. |
|
Carbon (C) |
≤0.08 |
≤0.08 |
Similar low carbon to prevent sensitization. |
|
Manganese (Mn) |
≤2 |
≤2 |
Identical for strength. |
|
Silicon (Si) |
≤0.75 |
≤0.75 |
No difference. |
Gangsteel's 304 and 316 meet these specs for reliable performance.
Physical properties are very similar, with minor differences in melting point and thermal expansion. The melting range of 304 is around 50 to 100 degrees Fahrenheit higher than 316.
Physical Properties of 304/316
|
Property |
304 |
316 |
Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
|
Melting Point |
1450°C |
1370-1400°C |
304 has a higher range. |
|
Density |
7.93 g/cm³ |
7.98 g/cm³ |
Identical. |
|
Thermal Expansion |
17.2 x 10^-6/K |
15.9 x 10^-6/K |
316 expands less. |
|
Modulus of Elasticity |
193 GPa |
193 GPa |
Same. |
|
Thermal Conductivity |
16.2 W/m-K |
16.3 W/m-K |
Similar heat transfer. |
316 has slightly higher tensile strength and hardness due to molybdenum.
|
Property |
304 |
316 |
Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
|
Tensile Strength |
515 MPa (min) |
515 MPa (min) |
Similar, but 316 can be higher in practice. |
|
Yield Strength |
205 MPa (min) |
205 MPa (min) |
Identical. |
|
Hardness (Brinell) |
201 max |
217 max |
316 is harder. |
|
Elongation |
40% min |
40% min |
Same ductility. |
316 has superior corrosion resistance, especially in chloride environments like saltwater, due to molybdenum. 304 is sufficient for general use but susceptible to pitting in chlorides. 316 is often called "marine grade."
Both are highly weldable, but 316 requires more care due to molybdenum. Formability is similar, with excellent ductility for bending.
316 is 20-40% more expensive than 304 due to molybdenum ($2,500-$4,000/MT vs $1,820-$3,584/MT). Gangsteel offers both at competitive rates from China.
304 for general use (e.g., kitchen equipment, architectural panels). 316 for harsh environments (e.g., marine hardware, chemical processing, medical implants). The table below shows typical uses:
|
Industry |
304 Applications |
316 Applications |
Related Products |
|---|---|---|---|
|
Chemical |
General tanks |
Acidic reactors |
|
|
Marine |
Freshwater fittings |
Saltwater hardware |
|
|
Food |
Equipment surfaces |
Processing vessels |
|
|
Medical |
Instruments |
Surgical implants |
Gangsteel’s ASME SA 213/SA 213M stainless pipes complement both grades.
304/316 vs 201: 304/316 have better corrosion due to nickel; 201 is cheaper for mild use.
304/316 vs 430: 304/316 are non-magnetic with better formability; 430 is magnetic and cheaper for non-corrosive.
Gangsteel’s nickel alloy steel plates offer advanced alternatives.
Gangsteel provides both grades with:
304 and 316 stainless steel differ mainly in molybdenum content, with 316 better for corrosive environments like marine or chemical applications, while 304 is cost-effective for general use. Both are excellent choices depending on your needs. Gangsteel offers high-quality options for both. Contact for UNS stainless steel plates.
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