316L Stainless Steel 1.4404 (X2CrNiMo17-12-2): Technical Data Sheet and Material Overview
The material 316L stainless steel, also referred to as 1.4404, X2CrNiMo17-12-2, or AISI 316L, is a widely used austenitic chromium-nickel-molybdenum stainless steel with low carbon content. Thanks to its molybdenum addition of 2.0 to 2.5%, this grade offers significantly better corrosion resistance compared to molybdenum-free steels like 1.4301. Its reduced carbon content also improves weldability and resistance to intergranular corrosion.
The 316L steel is cold-formable, polishable, and suitable for use at both low and elevated temperatures up to 550 °C. Its typical applications include piping systems, chemical processing, apparatus construction, and food and pharmaceutical industries.
Stainless steel
1.4404 || 1.4401 || 316L || 316
- Good weldability
- High resistance to general corrosion
- Good resistance to intergranular corrosion
- Good cold formability
- High tensile strength
316 L applications
- Chemical industry
- Plant engineering
- Food industry
- Tank and apparatus engineering
- Petrochemical industry
- Pulp / Paper industry
Chemical Composition
(Reference Values in %)
| Value | Proportion % |
|---|---|
| Carbon (C): | min. 0 % - max. 0.03 % |
| Manganese (Mn): | min. 0 % - max. 2.00 % |
| Silicon (Si): | min. 0 % - max. 1.00 % |
| Phosphorus (P): | min. 0 % - max. 0,045 % |
| Sulfur (S): | min. 0% - max. 0.030 % |
| Chromium (Cr): | 16.5 % – 18.5 % |
| Nickel (Ni): | 10 % – 13 % |
| Molybdenum (Mo): | 2.0 % – 2.5 % |
| Nitrogen (N): | min. 0 % - max. 0.1 % |
Mechanical Properties at Room Temperaturee
| Tensile strength N/mm²: | 500 – 700 N/mm² |
| Yield strength (Rp0.2): | ≥ 200 N/mm² |
| Elongation (A5,65): | ≥ 40 % |
| Hardness (HB): | ≤ 215 |
| Elastic modulus: | 200 kN/mm² |
Physical Properties at 20 °C
| Density: | 8.0 kg/dm³ |
| Thermal conductivity: | 15 W/m·K |
| Specific heat capacity: | 500 J/kg·K |
| Electrical resistance: | 0.75 Ω·mm²/m |
| Magnetizability: | low |
Processing Capabilities of SS316L
The 316l stainless steel is easier to machine than 1.4401 due to its reduced carbon content. It is readily weldable with or without filler metals and does not require post-weld heat treatment. Welding does not impair its resistance to intergranular corrosion.
| Cold forming | yes |
| Cold heading: | yes |
| Polishability: | yes |
| Open-die and drop forging: | yes |
| Machining: | yes |
Corrosion Resistance of AISI 316L Stainless Steel
316L stainless steel offers very good corrosion resistance in a wide range of natural and mildly aggressive environments. It is especially resistant to media with moderate chloride and salt concentrations. The low carbon content improves resistance to intergranular corrosion, even after welding. The PREN value ranges between 23.1 and 28.5, indicating good pitting resistance for stainless 316L applications.
Note that 1.4404 stainless is not recommended for use in seawater.
Processing and Thermal Treatment of 1.4404 Material
The 316L SS material can be forged at 1180 °C to 900 °C after slow preheating. Cooling is carried out rapidly using air or water. Surface scale or tarnish must be removed chemically or mechanically to maintain corrosion resistance. Solution annealing is performed at 1020 – 1120 °C with water or air cooling. Hot forming is carried out between 1200 and 900 °C.
Designations and Material Standards of Stainless Steel 316L
- EN: 1.4404
- DIN: X 2 Cr Ni Mo 17-12
- AISI: 316L
- UNS: S31603
- ASME: 316L
- AFNOR: X2CrNiMo 17-12-2
- SIS: 2348
Applications of T316L Stainless Steel
The 316 L stainless steel grade is widely used in the following sectors:
● Chemical industry
● Plant and apparatus engineering
● Petrochemical industry
● Pulp and paper industry
● Food and beverage industry
● Pharmaceutical industry
● Automotive and aviation
● Construction and decorative purposes
Tables and rates
Scope of delivery
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