12/09/2025
Material in application
Stainless Steel 304 vs 316 – both are austenitic stainless steels commonly used in industry, but they have key differences that affect their performance in various environments.
🔩 Composition
⚙️304 Stainless Steel. :-
1. Chromium. ~ ( 18-20 )%
2. Nickel. ~ ( 8-10.5 )%
3. Molybdenum. ~ 0%
⚙️316 Stainless Steel. :-
1. Chromium. ~ ( 16-18 )%
2. Nickel. ~ ( 10-15 )%
3. Molybdenum. ~ 0%
▪️Key Difference: 316 contains. molybdenum, which greatly enhances. corrosion resistance, especially to chlorides (like saltwater)
🌊 Resistance
Environment 304 316
Freshwater Good Excellent
Saltwater/ Fair (may. Excellent
Marine. pit/corrode
Industrial. moderate. Better
Chemicals. Resistance
▪️Verdict: 316 is the preferred choice for marine, chemical, or high-salinity environments.
🔧 Properties & Use Cases
▪️Property / Use Case
🔧304
1. Strength. ~ Similar to 316
2.Weldability. ~ Excellent
3. Machinability ~Slightly better than 316
4.Cost. ~ Less expensive
5.Applications ~Kitchenware, architect
🔧316
1. Strength. ~ Similar to 304
2. Weldability. ~ Excellent
3.Machinability ~ Slightly tougher
4. Cost. ~ 20-30 % more expensive
5.Applications ~ Marine ,chemical tanks
🏁 Summary
Type 304
General Use. ✅ Best for general use
Corrosion. ✅ Good
Resistance
Cost. ✅ Lower
Type 316
General Use. ✅ Best for harsh
environment
Corrosion. ✅ Superior
Resistance. (chlorides/salt)
Cost. ✅ Higher
💡 When to Use Which?
Use 304 if you're building something for indoor, dry, or mild environments.
Use 316 if you're dealing with salt, chemicals, or outdoor marine conditions.