316L stainless steel (S31683/00Cr18Ni14Mo2Cu2) is a molybdenum-containing stainless steel with excellent corrosion resistance in a variety of aggressive media, such as acid, alkali and salt.Due to the addition of Mo, its anti-corrosion ability is far better than that of 316 stainless steel and 304 stainless steel. In addition, the grade of the steel has a high temperature resistance and a good processing performance.
Physical Properties of 316L stainless steel
316L stainless steel has a density of 7.9 g/cm3. The melting point of the material is 1454-1520 °C(2650-2768 °F). its tensile strength is 485MPa (70,300 psi) and yield strength is 170MPa (24,700 psi). The elongation of the material is 30%.
Chemical Properties of 316L stainless steel
The chemical composition of 316L stainless steel is: 0.03% carbon max, 16-18% chromium, 2-3% molybdenum, 10-14% nickel, 2-3% manganese, 2.0% silicon, 0.75% nitrogen, and 0.045% phosphorus. It contains minimal amounts of sulfur and phosphorous.
Uses of 316L stainless steel
Due to its excellent corrosion resistance, 316L stainless steel can be used in a variety of applications such as medical equipment and food processing units, petrochemical equipment, chemical tanks, paper and pulp production units, cryogenic structures and marine equipment components. In particular, it is ideal to use it in areas that require high levels of corrosion resistance. In addition, the grade is characterized by its ability to withstand extreme temperatures and pressures, making it suitable for the manufacture of heat exchangers, steam lines, boilers and valves.
Main Characteristics of 316L stainless steel
316L stainless steel is known for its ability to resist corrosion and oxidation, which makes it an ideal alloy for use in many tough and extreme environments. It has excellent ductility and weldability and it may also be machined or cold worked. In addition, 316L stainless steel has excellent workhardening capacities, which ensures robust results when forming or bending the material. Another key characteristic of the grade is its good heat resistance which allows it to be used in high temperature applications, such as the manufacture of heat exchangers and boilers.Finally, 316L stainless steel has excellent cryogenic properties, making it well suited for cryogenic systems.
Conclusion
316L stainless steel (S31683/00Cr18Ni14Mo2Cu2) is a high performance grade of stainless steel that has excellent corrosion resistance properties and is also suitable for fabrication in aggressive environments. Its unique combination of properties makes it an ideal alloy for use in the manufacture of heat exchangers, boilers, pressure vessels and valves. In addition, it has good workhardening capacities and excellent heat resistance, which allows it to be used in high temperature applications. Finally, it has excellent cryogenic properties, making it an ideal choice for cryogenic systems.