Stainless 316L Strip To Australia

316L stainless steel strips are widely used in various industries and are chosen by many manufacturers for their excellent corrosion resistance, good welding performance, and excellent oxidation resistance. Here are some of the main uses of 316L stainless steel strips:

Chemical Equipment

316L stainless steel strips are often used in the chemical industry to manufacture equipment such as storage tanks, pipelines, heat exchangers, etc., because they can maintain stable performance in acidic, alkaline, and high-temperature environments, and are particularly suitable for occasions where they come into contact with corrosive chemicals such as strong acids and alkalis.

Food Processing and Pharmaceutical Equipment

Due to the low carbon content of 316L stainless steel, it can effectively reduce the precipitation of carbides during welding and avoid particle corrosion. Therefore, it is widely used in food processing, pharmaceutical equipment, dairy processing, and brewing industries. Reactors, pipelines, agitators, etc. ensure hygiene and product safety.

Medical Equipment

The biocompatibility of 316L stainless steel makes it suitable for the manufacture of surgical implants, medical devices, and dental equipment. Its hypoallergenicity and good corrosion resistance make it an important material in the medical field.

Shipbuilding and Marine Engineering

316L stainless steel strip has strong resistance to salt spray corrosion, so it is widely used in shipbuilding and marine engineering, such as bolts, fasteners, hull structural parts, seawater treatment equipment, etc., suitable for harsh environments in contact with seawater.

Architectural Decoration

In the field of architectural decoration, 316L stainless steel strip is used for metal decoration, railings, doors and windows of the facade, and some high-end decorative materials, because it has good corrosion resistance in the atmosphere, especially suitable for coastal areas and areas with serious industrial pollution.

Environmental Protection Equipment

316L stainless steel strip is also widely used in wastewater treatment equipment and flue gas desulfurization equipment in the environmental protection industry because it can maintain stable performance when dealing with highly corrosive substances such as chloride ions.

The main difference between SS 316 and 316L narrow strips is their chemical composition and performance characteristics. Specifically, the difference in carbon content between the two affects their corrosion resistance and application scenarios. The following are the specific differences between SS 316 and 316L narrow strips:

1. Carbon Content

SS 316: The carbon content is higher, usually within 0.08%.

SS 316L: The carbon content is lower, usually not more than 0.03%.

The reduction in carbon content reduces the precipitation of carbides during welding, which can significantly improve the intergranular corrosion resistance of 316L at high temperatures.

2. Corrosion Resistance

SS 316: In ordinary environments, 316 has excellent corrosion resistance, especially in seawater or chemical industries. However, after some high-temperature welding or hot working, the precipitation of carbides may cause the corrosion resistance of the material to decrease in local areas.

SS 316L: Due to the lower carbon content, the 316L narrow strip has better intergranular corrosion resistance, especially after welding or hot working. It is particularly suitable for use in acidic environments or in applications where welding is required.

3. Mechanical properties

SS 316: Due to its higher carbon content, 316 has slightly higher strength than 316L in some cases, but the difference is small.

SS 316L: The reduction in carbon content generally slightly reduces the strength of 316L, but its plasticity and toughness are better, especially in low-temperature environments.

4. Weldability

SS 316: After welding, 316 may cause intergranular corrosion due to carbide precipitation, especially in the weld area, unless subsequent heat treatment is performed.

SS 316L: The lower carbon content allows 316L to avoid intergranular corrosion after welding even without heat treatment. This makes 316L more advantageous in applications that require welding.

5. Price

SS 316: Generally slightly cheaper than 316L, especially when welding or intergranular corrosion resistance are not key requirements.

SS 316L: Due to its low carbon content and stronger corrosion resistance, the price of 316L is usually slightly higher than 316, especially in situations where special corrosion resistance is required.

6. Application

SS 316: Widely used in situations where high strength and corrosion resistance are required, such as chemical equipment, marine engineering, food processing equipment, etc. However, intergranular corrosion may occur after welding, and it is suitable for environments that do not involve high-temperature welding or can be heat treated after welding.

SS 316L: Due to its excellent welding resistance and better intergranular corrosion resistance, 316L is more suitable for welded structures, chemical processing equipment, pharmaceutical equipment, and other situations that require extremely strong corrosion resistance.