Q What is the difference between 304 and 316 stainless steel?
316 stainless contains a fair amount of molybdenum to improve high-temperature mechanical stability and corrosion resistance in certain marine environments. Otherwise the grades are very similar. Since molybdenum is a very expensive alloy addition, it adds greatly to the overall cost of 316 versus 304.
316 Stainless Applications
- Food preparation equipment.
- Laboratory equipment.
- Coastal architectural panelling, railings & trim.
- Marine fittings, mooring chain.
- Chemical containers.
- Heat Exchangers.
- Screens for mining, quarrying & water filtration.
- Threaded fasteners.
- Springs.
304 Stainless Applications
- Sinks and splashbacks.
- Saucepans.
- Cutlery and flatware.
- Architectural panelling.
- Sanitary ware and troughs.
- Tubing.
- Brewery, dairy, food and pharmaceutical production equipment.
- Springs, nuts, bolts and screws.
