Is 1.4408 equivalent to SS316?
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When sourcing stainless steel parts for corrosive or high-performance environments, buyers often ask: Is EN 1.4408 equivalent to SS316 (AISI 316)? While the two are closely related in composition and corrosion resistance, they are not directly interchangeable. This article explains the key differences, similarities, and when to choose each grade - helping engineers and procurement professionals make informed decisions.
What Is EN 1.4408?
EN 1.4408 is the material number for a cast austenitic stainless steel under the European standard EN 10213. It's commonly used for producing valves, pumps, flanges, and pressure-containing cast components in the chemical, petrochemical, and marine industries.
Standard name: EN 1.4408
Designation: GX5CrNiMo19-11-2
Equivalent UNS: J92900
Typical form: Sand castings or investment castings
What Is SS316 / AISI 316?
SS316, also known as AISI 316, is a wrought austenitic stainless steel under the ASTM system. It's widely used in sheet, plate, bar, pipe, and tube form for welded or machined structures.
UNS number: S31600
Material form: Hot-rolled, cold-rolled, forged, drawn
EN 1.4408 Chemical Composition Comparison
EN 1.4408 contains slightly more chromium and may have higher silicon/manganese due to the casting process.
| Element | EN 1.4408 (Cast) | AISI 316 (Wrought) |
|---|---|---|
| C | ≤ 0.07% | ≤ 0.08% |
| Cr | 18.0–20.0% | 16.0–18.0% |
| Ni | 9.0–11.0% | 10.0–14.0% |
| Mo | 2.0–3.0% | 2.0–3.0% |
| Mn, Si | Higher in cast | Lower in wrought |
Difference between 1.4408 and 316 Mechanical Properties Comparison
| Property | EN 1.4408 (Cast) | AISI 316 (Wrought) |
|---|---|---|
| Tensile Strength | ~450–750 MPa | ~515–700 MPa |
| Yield Strength | ~200–300 MPa | ~205 MPa |
| Elongation | ~20–30% | ~40–50% |
| Hardness (HB) | ≤ 220 | ≤ 217 |
Are 1.4408 and SS316 Equivalent?
In terms of corrosion resistance and chemical composition, yes - they are functionally equivalent.
However, they differ in manufacturing method, mechanical properties, and certifications.
| Aspect | EN 1.4408 | AISI 316 |
|---|---|---|
| Type | Cast stainless steel | Wrought stainless steel |
| Standards | EN 10213 | ASTM A240, A276, A312 |
| Applications | Valves, flanges, pumps | Plates, tubes, structures |
| Welding Behavior | Requires care due to porosity | Very weldable |
GX5CrNiMo19-11-2 vs AISI 316 ：Applications
EN 1.4408 (Cast):
Marine valves and pump housings
Flanged fittings and pressure-bearing castings
Heat exchanger parts in corrosive media
SS316 (Wrought):
Storage tanks, pipework, architectural panels
Welded structures in coastal or chemical environments
Food and pharmaceutical equipment
