stainless steel 304 316 difference

Overview of SA 240 GR 304 and SA 240 GR 316

SA 240 GR 304 (ASTM A240 304, 1.4301) and SA 240 GR 316 (ASTM A240 316, 1.4401) are austenitic stainless steels known for their SS 304 non magnetic properties in the annealed state and a shared SA 240 GR 304 density of 8.00 g/cm³. While both offer excellent formability and corrosion resistance, SA 240 GR 316 includes molybdenum, enhancing its performance in specific environments. Gangsteel supplies both grades, including sa 240 gr 304 and sa 240 gr 316.

Chemical Composition Comparison

The primary difference lies in their chemical makeup, particularly molybdenum in 316:

• 304: Higher chromium for general corrosion resistance.
• 316: Molybdenum enhances pitting and crevice corrosion resistance in chloride environments. For low-carbon variants, see sa 240 gr 304l and sa 240 gr 316l.

Mechanical Properties Comparison

Both grades have similar mechanical properties in the annealed state, but 316 may show slight variations due to alloying:

Both grades support applications like plat SS 304 3mm or SA 240 GR 304 pipe. For high-temperature needs, explore sa 240 gr 304h.

Corrosion Resistance Comparison

• SA 240 GR 304: Excellent in atmospheric, freshwater, and mild acid environments (e.g., food processing). Susceptible to pitting in chloride-rich settings, unlike SS204 vs SS 304, which has lower resistance.
• SA 240 GR 316: Superior resistance to pitting and crevice corrosion due to molybdenum, making it ideal for marine, chemical, and coastal applications. It outperforms 304 in saltwater and acidic conditions.

For enhanced weldability in corrosive environments, consider sa 240 gr 316l.

Weldability and Fabrication

• 304: Good weldability with ER308 filler; SA 240 GR 304L is preferred for critical welds to avoid sensitization.
• 316: Similar weldability with ER316 filler; SA 240 GR 316L reduces corrosion risks in welded zones. Both maintain SS 304 non magnetic properties post-welding if properly annealed.

Gangsteel’s astm a 240 stainless plate includes dual-certified SA 240 TP 304/304L and 316/316L.

Cost and Availability

• 304: More cost-effective, with a lower SS 304 plate price due to no molybdenum. Widely available for general applications.
• 316: Higher SS 304 steel price (10-20% more) due to molybdenum and nickel content, but justified for chloride-heavy environments.

Contact admin@gangsteel.com for competitive pricing on sa 240 gr 317l for even harsher conditions.

Applications

• SA 240 GR 304: Used in kitchen equipment, architectural panels, and chemical tanks (e.g., plate 2 mm SUS 304). Ideal where cost and general corrosion resistance are priorities.
• SA 240 GR 316: Preferred for marine hardware, pharmaceutical equipment, and coastal structures due to chloride resistance.

Why Choose Gangsteel?

Gangsteel offers certified SA 240 GR 304 and 316 plates, with custom sizes like plat stainless 304 and detailed SS 304 data sheet resources. For specialized needs, explore sa 240 gr 321 for high-temperature stability. Email admin@gangsteel.com for quotes or visit our sa 240 gr 304 page.