Corrosion resistance of AISI317 and AISI317L
Austenitic stainless steels, such as AISI317 and AISI317L, are some of the most versatile and widely used stainless steels due to their superior corrosion resistance and good formability. In stainless steels, AISI317 and AISI317L (00Cr19Ni13Mo3) are very close chemistries, with the difference being only minor levels of carbon, nitrogen and silicon. The main difference between the two alloys is the carbon content: AISI317L has a lower level of carbon than AISI317. In terms of corrosion resistance, they are among the most versatile stainless steels and can be used in a wide range of applications in both aggressive and non-aggressive environments.
One of the main advantages of Austenitic stainless steels such as AISI317 and AISI317L is their superior corrosion resistance. Both alloys have a high chromium (17%) and molybdenum (13%) content, which gives them enhanced resistance to crevice corrosion, pitting and stress corrosion cracking (SCC). In addition, the low carbon content of AISI317L (max. 0.03%) provides even better corrosion resistance than AISI317 due to the reduced risk of intergranular corrosion. This is mainly because carbon precipitates can initiate intergranular corrosion in austenitic stainless alloys. Both alloys can, therefore, provide good levels of corrosion resistance even in highly corrosive environments.
In terms of general corrosion resistance, AISI317 and AISI317L are particularly effective in environments with high chlorides, such as marine and industrial atmospheres. Their resistance to these corrosive environments is mainly attributed to their high chromium content, which forms a protective oxide film on the surface of the material known as a passive layer. This layer is highly resistant to further corrosion and helps to protect the stainless steel material from damage. In addition, both alloys are resistant to oxidizing acids such as nitric acid, and to reducing acids such as sulphuric acid.
The superior corrosion resistance of AISI317 and AISI317L means that they can be used in a variety of applications. They are used in the chemical and petroleum industries due to their resistance to corrosive environments, as well as in architectural applications, such as handrails, building facades and even art projects due to their aesthetic appeal.
To conclude, AISI317 and AISI317L are two very versatile stainless steels due to their superior corrosion resistance. Both alloys have a high chromium and molybdenum content, which gives them enhanced protection against crevice corrosion, pitting and stress corrosion cracking. In addition, AISI317L has a lower carbon content, which makes it even more resistant to intergranular corrosion. As such, both alloys can be used in a variety of applications, such as the chemical and petroleum industries, as well as in architectural applications.
