What is 316 Stainless Steel?

316 is an austenitic grade of stainless steel, second only to 304 in commercial importance.

It has improved corrosion resistance due to the addition of molybdenum. This makes it a little more expensive than 304.

316L is the low carbon version of 316.

316 Machinability

Cutting edges should be kept sharp as dull edges cause excess work hardening.

Cuts should be light but deep enough to prevent work hardening by riding on the surface of the material.

Chip breakers should be used to assist in ensuring swarf remains clear of the work.

Coolants and lubricants must be used in large quantities due to low thermal conductivity resulting in heat concentrating at the cutting edges.

Main attributes

• Excellent corrosion resistance (wider range of chemicals than 304)
• Performs well when exposed to relatively high and sub-zero temperatures
• Easily machined
• Suited to all standard methods of welding
• Subject to pitting and crevice corrosion in warm chloride environments
• Ease of cleaning
• Subject to stress cracking above 60°c
• Good heat resistance – oxidation resistance in intermittent use up to 870°c and continuous use up to 925°c, however continuous use at 425-860°c is not recommended. In this instance, 316L is recommended.

Finishing & treatments

316 cannot be hardened by heat treatment.

Solution treatment or annealing can be done by rapid cooling after heating to 1010-1120°C.

See our Finishing Processes page for further information on services that we can facilitate.

UK stock sizes

Here are the standard stock sizes/colours for 316 in the UK. Please note we do not supply stock material, the information provided is purely for design and research purposes.

Example Stainless 316 Stock Sizes

Stock sizes will vary depending on supplier. Please get in contact to discuss further.

316 Sheet

Size: 0.5mm - 3mm

Width: 1000mm - 2000mm

Length: 2000mm - 4000mm

316 Plate

​​​​​​​Thickness: 3mm - 12mm

Width: 1000mm - 2000mm

Length: 2000mm - 4000mm

316 Round Tube

Outside diameter: 19mm - 152.4mm

Wall thickness: 1.2mm - 3mm

316 Round Bar

4mm - 300mm

316 Square Bar

8mm - 120mm

316 Flat Bar

Thickness: 3mm - 12mm

Width: 12mm - 150mm

Common applications

• Food processing machinery & equipment
• Chemical processing & storage equipment
• Medical implants & prosthetics
• Valves &pumps
• Piping, tubing, & fittings
• Coastal architectural components
• Trims
• Pnalling & fascias
• Boat fittings & masts

Technical properties

Physical properties

Mechanical properties

Typical chemical composition (weight %)