Main characteristics and uses of austenitic stainless steel S31603 00Cr17Ni14Mo2

Stainless Steel 316L (00Cr17Ni14Mo2)

Stainless Steel 316L is a low carbon version of type 316 stainless steel that offers increased corrosion resistance, particularly against pitting and crevice corrosion, and is particularly suitable for use in process and marine environments. This alloy is also known as 1.4404 and is a part of the 300 Series of stainless steel, which includes steel alloys with molybdenum and chromium content.

Properties and Applications of Stainless Steel 316L

The corrosion resistance of Stainless Steel 316L is substantially better than that of the 304 family. In addition, this alloy offers a higher creep, stress-to-rupture, and tensile strength than other stainless steels. The low carbon content of this alloy, in addition to its inherent mechanical properties, makes it useful for welding operations in certain special applications.

The mechanical properties of Stainless Steel 316L include:

• Tensile strength, MPa (min): 550

• Yield strength, MPa (min): 220

• Elongation, % (min): 40

• Hardness, HB (max): 220

• Modulus of elasticity, GPa: 198

• Thermal expansion co-efficient, 10-6Å/°C (20-200°C): 11.5

Stainless Steel 316L is generally similar to type 316, but has a low carbon control range, so as to reduce the risk of sensitization or intergranular corrosion. It is commonly used in process and heat exchanger equipment, construction applications such as tanks, piping systems and pumps, pressure vessels and architectural decorative applications, such as waterfalls and fountains.

In terms of a materials corrosion resistance and durability, Grade 316 is better than Grade 304 but worse than Grade 330 stainless steel. It has the advantage of virtually non-existent carbide precipitation and good weldability. It is frequently used for nuts and bolts and other components in marine surgical equipment and marine tools. Additionally, the material is used in dairy and food-making industries.

Another characteristic of Stainless Steel 316L is its ‘austenitic’ structure, which makes this alloy very different from other ferritic groups. It gives the steel improved strength against adverse environments and is able to resist cracking and fatigue. The austenitic structure of the steel alloy also allows Stainless Steel 316L to be polished or grained, suitable for laser cutting, as well as making it more resistant to erosion and hard water.

Chemical Composition

The chemical composition of Bronze Alloy 316L is as follows:

• Carbon (C): ≤ 0.030%

• Manganese (Mn): ≤ 2.00%

• Phosphorous (P): ≤ 0.045%

• Sulfur (S): ≤ 0.03%

• Silicon (Si): ≤ 1.00%

• Chromium (Cr): 16.0 – 18.0%

• Nickel (Ni): 10.0 – 14.0%

• Molybdenum (Mo): 2.0 – 3.0%

• Iron (Fe): Bal.

Heat Treatment

Stainless Steel 316L is generally not subject to heat treatment, but if desired it may be tempered at 450°C to 690°C.

Conclusion

Stainless Steel 316L is a low carbon version of SS316 that is used for special applications due to its improved corrosion resistance. This alloy offers a higher creep, stress-to-rupture, and tensile strength than other stainless steels. It is particularly useful for welding operations in certain applications and maintains its austenitic structure even at very high temperatures. Additionally, this alloy has a low carbon control range, so as to reduce the risk of sensitization and intergranular corrosion. It is a popular choice for pressure vessels and architectural decorative applications.

Introduction

O Austenitic Stainless Steel S31603, aka 00Cr17Ni14Mo2, is a commonly used stainless steel with excellent corrosion resistance, strength, and ductility. It belongs to the Austenitic family of alloys and has the distinction of being one of the most popular alloys in the industry. It is widely used in many industries, as well as construction, food, marine, and other applications requiring excellent corrosion resistance.

Composition and Characteristic

Austenitic Stainless Steel S31603 has a composition of 78.3% Iron (Fe), 16.7% Chromium (Cr), 9-13% Nickel (Ni), 2-3% Molybdenum (Mo), 0.08-0.20% Carbon (C), 0.04-0.07% Manganese (Mn), 0.18-0.20% Silicon (Si), 0.35% Phosphorus (P), 0.04% Sulphur (S), and 0.03% Copper (Cu). These constituents give the alloy a tensile strength ranging from 515 to 815MPa, a yield strength of 207-621MPa and an elongation of 40% in 50 mm.

Austenitic Stainless Steel S31603 has outstanding corrosion resistance, particularly against saltwater and other chloride containing environments. It also possesses high ductility and toughness, making it suitable for many applications that require strength and dimensional stability. Additionally, Austenitic Stainless Steel S31603 has excellent weldability and formability, making it easy to work with.

Applications

Due to its excellent corrosion resistance and strength, Austenitic Stainless Steel S31603 is extensively used in many industries. It can be found in construction, offshore engineering, chemical processing, pulp and paper, and food processing. It is also often used in heat exchangers, pressure vessels, offshore pipes, pipelines, and valves. Additionally, Austenitic Stainless Steel S31603 is often used in the marine industry for sea water piping, flowsheets, mooring systems, and ship equipments.

Conclusion

Overall, Austenitic Stainless Steel S31603 is an extremely versatile and useful alloy. Its exceptional corrosion resistance, strength, ductility, and weldability make it suitable for many applications in various industries. It is well-suited for many demands, including pressure vessels and marine use, and has a long service life.