Difference between 304 and 316 Steel

Stainless steel 304 and 316 have significant differences in many aspects. The following is a specific comparison:

1. Chemical composition

304 stainless steel: mainly composed of iron, chromium, and nickel, specifically containing more than 18% chromium and more than 8% nickel. This is the key component to maintain its corrosion resistance.

316 stainless steel: 2~3% molybdenum is added to 304. The addition of molybdenum significantly improves its corrosion resistance, especially its resistance to chlorides.

2. Corrosion resistance

304 stainless steel: has good corrosion resistance and is suitable for most daily uses. However, in some harsh environments (such as long-term contact with salt water or strong acids), it is prone to corrosion.

316 stainless steel: Due to the addition of molybdenum, its corrosion resistance is stronger, especially in environments with high chloride ions and salt content. Therefore, 316 stainless steel is more suitable for use in marine environments or occasions with more chemical contact.

3. Heat resistance

304 stainless steel: has good high temperature resistance, but there are certain limitations. It is usually suitable for use in environments where the maximum temperature does not exceed 870℃.

316 stainless steel: It can maintain stability at higher temperatures and is generally suitable for equipment in high-temperature environments. The maximum temperature resistance can reach 925°C. This gives it an advantage in situations where it needs to withstand high temperatures.

4. Performance and Uses

304 stainless steel: Due to its good processing performance, corrosion resistance and relatively low cost, it is widely used in kitchen equipment (such as sinks, kitchenware, tableware, etc.), construction industry, food processing equipment (environment without contact with corrosive substances), medical equipment and automotive industry.

316 stainless steel: Due to its excellent corrosion resistance, especially in humid, salt spray and chemical corrosion environments, it is often used in high-demand occasions such as marine engineering, chemical industry, medical industry (such as implantable medical devices), food processing and pharmaceutical industries. In addition, it is also suitable for architectural decoration in some extreme environments.

5. Price

304 stainless steel: Due to its relatively simple composition and wide application, its price is usually more economical.

316 stainless steel: Due to the high manufacturing cost due to the high content of alloy elements (especially molybdenum), the price is usually more expensive than 304 stainless steel.

In summary, there are significant differences between 304 and 316 stainless steel in terms of chemical composition, corrosion resistance, heat resistance, performance and use, and price. The choice of stainless steel depends on the specific use environment and needs. In conventional environments, 304 stainless steel is usually sufficient to meet the needs; in situations where higher corrosion resistance and heat resistance are required, 316 stainless steel is more suitable.