316 grade stainless steel tubes are robust, easy to maintain, and formable. These advantages result from alloying the base austenitic steel with other elements.
316 stainless steel alloys are often more expensive because they use rare elements to alloy them and are therefore not widely available. But they do provide better performance in certain areas, such as corrosion resistance and strength. That makes 316 the preferred choice for many applications.
Stainless steel is an ideal corrosion-resistant material, but only if made correctly. 316 grade stainless steel tube is economical and suitable for most environments but lacks the 316’s chloride resistance. Although slightly more expensive, 316 is worth the extra money in areas of high exposure to chlorides. Depending on the purpose, different grades are best for different applications. Some standard consumer stainless steels include 430, 409, and 316.
Strength
The austenitic structure of 316 stainless steel provides excellent corrosion resistance. Compared to 304, this stainless steel is much more resistant to pitting and crevice corrosion. This stainless steel still maintains its excellent toughness despite the high chromium content, even at very high temperatures. Hence, it is widely used for cryogenic applications. This type of steel has excellent toughness, weldability, and dimensional stability.
Easy maintenance
The best way to keep your 316 stainless steel tubes in good condition is to avoid cleaning them with sewage or other chemicals. To maintain their luster, scour them twice a year. If your 316 stainless steel pipes are external, they will usually be subject to rain erosion. To prevent dust accumulation, you can combine rain wash with manual cleaning. You can use a cleaning solution of 2% hydrofluoric acid and 10% nitric acid.
Superior corrosion resistance
316 stainless steel tubes are commonly used for a wide variety of applications. This high-quality steel is a member of the austenitic group, comprising two-thirds of all stainless-steel production. The primary alloy composition is 16 to 18 percent chromium, 10 to 14% nickel, and two to three percent molybdenum. Other alloying elements are added for enhanced toughness and corrosion resistance.
Economical
A 316 stainless steel tube provides several benefits compared to standard metal tubing. They are corrosion-resistant, lightweight, easy to clean, and relatively inexpensive. Although their initial cost may be higher than that of other types of tubing, they are typically less expensive to replace and maintain in the long run. Below, we discuss the benefits and applications of 316 stainless steel tubing. This type of tubing can be used in various applications, from kitchenware to corrosive environments.
Resistant to chlorides
Stainless steel grade 316 is more resistant to corrosive agents such as sulfuric acid and other oxidizing acids. Compared to type 304, 316 stainless steel is more resistant to chlorides, bromides, and fatty acids at high temperatures. This makes it a better choice for applications involving strong acids and salt. Despite its high resistance to chlorides, Type 304 is also resistant to most oxidizing acids and other chemicals.
Final Take
Stainless steel is a versatile material, and 316 stainless steel is no exception. The material’s corrosion resistance is excellent, while its ease of workability is second to none. Stainless steel is also solid and valuable for many industrial applications. Stainless steel tubes made of 316 grades are lightweight and easy to work with, ideal for smaller parts. Stainless steel tubes made from 316 grades are one of the most popular grades in the world. Call 1.636.343.3004 for more information.