What is the difference between 304 stainless and 316 stainless?

The simple answer is 304 contains 18% chromium and 8% nickel while 316 contains 16% chromium, 10% nickel and 2% molybdenum. The molybdenum is added to help resist corrosion to chlorides (like sea water and de-icing salts).

Which is easier to machine 304 or 316?

Type 304 is more machinable than 316 stainless steel. Not only is grade 304 steel easier to machine but it is easier to clean. That is one reason why it comes in so many different finishes. Type 316 stainless steel is not just harder to machine but requires special tools to cut.

How can you tell the difference between 304 and 316?

Aesthetically, there is no difference between the two; in fact, the only way to differentiate between them is to test them chemically. The main difference between 304 and 316 stainless steel is 316 SS has the addition of molybdenum.

What are the 4 types of stainless steel?

4 Types of Stainless Steel

• Austenitic. The austenitic group comprises the most common types of stainless steel.
• Ferritic. Containing anywhere between 10.5% and 30% chromium, ferritic stainless steels usually have low carbon consistencies of not more than 0.1%.
• Duplex.
• Martensitic.

Can you use 316 to weld 304?

The general rule with Welding Stainless Steel is to weld it with either the same grade of Welding Rod, Tig Wire or Mig Wire, or a higher grade. So you could weld 304 Stainless Steel with a 308 or 316 Rod/Wire, but you shouldn’t weld 316 with a 308 Rod/Wire.

What is the highest quality steel?

Type 304—the most common grade; the classic 18/8 (18% chromium, 8% nickel) stainless steel. Outside of the US it is commonly known as “A2 stainless steel”, in accordance with ISO 3506 (not to be confused with A2 tool steel).

What’s the difference between 304 and 316 stainless steel?

Differences Between 304 vs 316. The most basic difference between the grades of steel is the presence of molybdenum in stainless 316. Molybdenum is a chemical element used for the strengthening and hardening of steel. Its main function in stainless 316 is to help fight off corrosion from chlorides.

Which is better AISI 304 or AISI 316?

The addition of molybdenum provides pitting resistance in phosphoric acid, acetic acid and dilute chloride solutions and provides corrosion resistance in sulfurous acid. In addition, AISI 304 has a 18% Cr and 8% Ni and therefore known as 18-8 stainless steel, while AISI 316 has a 16% Chromium and 10% Nickel.

Which is better for sea water 304 or 316?

316, with its addition of molybdenum, is considerably more resistant to corrosive environments than 304. 316 is more suitable for sea water environments and marine applications. Because of its greater resistance to oxidations, it’s also widely used in refining equipment, fasteners, pulp and paper

What’s the difference between molybdenum 304 and 316?

Molybdenum further increases the corrosion resistance of the material, making it ideal for more acidic environments. 304 is generally less expensive and is a great choice for kitchen applications including appliances, sinks, pots and pans and flatware. It’s well suited for liquid storage and tanks and food prep equipment.