ASTM A276 316 Stainless Steel Bar Specification
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ASTM A276 316 : Composition, Properties, and Applications
ASTM A276/A276M 316 stainless steel bar. pdf
ASTM A276 316 stainless steel bar is a widely used corrosion-resistant material in industrial and marine environments. Known for its superior resistance to chlorides and acids, Grade 316 stainless steel-especially when manufactured to ASTM A276 standards-is the go-to choice for critical structural and mechanical applications.
In this article, we'll break down the ASTM A276 316 stainless steel bar specification, its chemical and mechanical properties, common applications, and how it compares with other grades like 304. This is essential knowledge for procurement engineers, specifiers, and project managers looking for reliable stainless steel bar materials.
What Is ASTM A276?
ASTM A276 is a standard issued by ASTM International for wrought stainless steel bars. It applies to hot-finished or cold-finished stainless steel bars that are intended for general structural, mechanical, or architectural applications, excluding bars for forging or free-machining applications.
What Is 316 Stainless Steel?
316 stainless steel is an austenitic chromium-nickel stainless steel alloy containing 2–3% molybdenum. The molybdenum improves corrosion resistance-especially against chlorides and acidic environments-making 316 superior to 304 in aggressive conditions.
316 is often specified in food processing, chemical handling, marine hardware, and pharmaceutical equipment.
Chemical Composition of ASTM A276 316 Stainless Steel Bar
| Element | Content (%) |
|---|---|
| Chromium (Cr) | 16.0 – 18.0 |
| Nickel (Ni) | 10.0 – 14.0 |
| Molybdenum (Mo) | 2.0 – 3.0 |
| Carbon (C) | ≤ 0.08 |
| Manganese (Mn) | ≤ 2.0 |
| Silicon (Si) | ≤ 1.0 |
| Phosphorus (P) | ≤ 0.045 |
| Sulfur (S) | ≤ 0.030 |
| Nitrogen (N) | ≤ 0.10 |
| Iron (Fe) | Balance |
Mechanical Properties of ASTM A276 316 Stainless Steel Bar
| Property | Typical Value |
|---|---|
| Tensile Strength | ≥ 515 MPa (75 ksi) |
| Yield Strength (0.2%) | ≥ 205 MPa (30 ksi) |
| Elongation (in 50 mm) | ≥ 40% |
| Hardness (Brinell) | ≤ 217 HBW |
316 maintains good ductility and toughness even at cryogenic temperatures, making it highly versatile in demanding environments.
What is the difference between ASTM A276 and ASTM A479 for 316?
While both standards may cover the same material grade, ASTM A276 is used for general structural or mechanical applications, whereas ASTM A479 is intended for pressure vessels, heat exchangers, and boiler applications. If the bar is going to be used in high-pressure or high-temperature systems, A479 is the correct choice.
Is 316 stainless steel bar magnetic?
No. 316 is non-magnetic in the annealed condition, though slight magnetism can develop if it is heavily cold-worked. This is important for applications requiring full non-magnetic behavior, such as medical and electronic equipment.
Can I use 316 instead of 304 stainless steel?
Yes, and it's often recommended. While 304 is less expensive and sufficient for many indoor applications, 316 provides better corrosion resistance, especially in marine, chemical, and food processing environments. The trade-off is higher material cost, but it may save money in the long run through reduced maintenance or longer lifespan.
Is 316L covered by ASTM A276?
Yes. ASTM A276 also covers 316L, the low-carbon version of 316 stainless steel. 316L offers improved weldability and resistance to intergranular corrosion after welding, making it suitable for equipment fabrication.
Applications of ASTM A276 316 Stainless Steel Bar
Marine components (shafts, fasteners, fittings)
Food and beverage processing equipment
Chemical and pharmaceutical tanks
Heat exchangers (if A479 not required)
Architectural applications in coastal environments
Medical devices and implants
