Grade TP316/316L (UNS S31600/S31603), a chromium-nickel molybdenum austenitic stainless steel, is a modification of the basic 18-8 (18/8) composition, with the addition of 2% molybdenum, for increased resistance to corrosion. It has the same corrosion resistance as Grade 304/304L, but with slightly higher strength at elevated temperatures.
Grade TP316/316L is a popular, austenitic stainless steel grade with superior corrosion resistance, superior resistance to pitting, and superior formability. It is commonly used in food and beverage manufacturing, medical devices, and medical and pharmaceutical equipment. It is also used in kitchen appliance components and in yacht fittings.
Grade TP316/316L has excellent corrosion resistance in a wide range of chemical environments and it is particularly resistant to pitting and crevice corrosion. It is also resistant to chloride-induced stress corrosion cracking, making it an ideal material for applications in environments containing halide ions, such as seawater, fluids containing chlorides, and brine solutions. Grade TP316/316L is exceptionally resistant to acids and bases, making it ideal for acidic and basic environments, like the pH of the human stomach.
Grade TP316/316L is highly resistant to temperature changes. It has excellent temperature resistivity, making it ideal for use in high-temperature environments and applications like boilers, piping systems, valves, flanges, and fittings. Grade TP316/316L also has good resistance to oxidation, making it suitable for heavy duty applications that require high temperatures, such as gas and oil processing, power generation, and industrial furnaces.
Grade TP316/316L is also highly resistant to abrasion and erosion. Its high chromium content provides good corrosion resistance and strength, making it ideal for applications subject to high mechanical stresses, such as valves, fittings, screws, nuts, and bolts. The chromium content also lends the grade good weldability and formability, making it suitable for fabrication.
Grade TP316/316L is non-magnetic, which makes it well-suited for use in instruments and equipment where magnets are employed. It is also non-magnetic in the annealed condition, making it ideal for applications where magnetic susceptibility is important, like in electronic components and sensors.
Grade TP316/316L has relatively low hardness, making it easier to form and shape compared to other grades of stainless steel. This excellent formability also makes it suitable for a wide range of products, such as pipes, sheeting, pressure vessels, and tubing. It is typically chosen for applications that require high strength and ease of fabrication, such as heat exchangers, fluid vessels, and pressure vessels.
