SUS316 vs SUS304 Stainless Steel: Key Differences
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If you are looking for SUS316 or SUS304 stainless steel for your industrial, marine, or chemical applications, understanding the differences in corrosion resistance, mechanical properties, and cost is essential. Gnee provides high-quality SUS304 and SUS316 stainless steel products, including sheets, plates, pipes, and coils, fully certified and ready for delivery worldwide.
What is the equivalent material for SUS304?
The most direct equivalents for SUS304 are AISI 304 (US), 1.4301 (European EN), and UNS S30400 (Unified Numbering System). These grades are virtually identical in chemical composition and properties, being the same 18-8 austenitic stainless steel, but are specified under different national or international standards.
What is the equivalent material for SUS316?
The equivalent materials for SUS316 depend on the standard, with common equivalents including ASTM 316 (US), UNS S31600 (US), 1.4401 (German), X5CrNiMo17-12-2 (European), and 316S31 (British).
What is the difference between SUS304 and SUS316?
SUS316 is similar to SUS304 but contains an additional 2.5% molybdenum, which provides enhanced corrosion resistance. It is particularly effective in environments exposed to saltwater, chemicals, or other corrosive substances. Common uses include piping systems, chemical plants, marine structures, and medical devices.
SUS316 vs SUS304 Stainless Steel: Key Differences
| Element | SUS304 (1.4301 / 304) | SUS316 (1.4401 / 316) |
|---|---|---|
| Carbon (C) | ≤ 0.08% | ≤ 0.08% |
| Chromium (Cr) | 18–20% | 16–18% |
| Nickel (Ni) | 8–10.5% | 10–14% |
| Molybdenum (Mo) | 0% | 2–3% |
| Manganese (Mn) | ≤ 2% | ≤ 2% |
| Silicon (Si) | ≤ 1% | ≤ 1% |
| Phosphorus (P) | ≤ 0.045% | ≤ 0.045% |
| Sulfur (S) | ≤ 0.03% | ≤ 0.03% |
| Iron (Fe) | Balance | Balance |
SUS316 vs SUS304 Stainless Steel: Mechanical Properties
| Property | SUS304 (1.4301 / 304) | SUS316 (1.4401 / 316) |
|---|---|---|
| Density | 8.0 g/cm³ | 8.0 g/cm³ |
| Tensile Strength (MPa) | 520–750 | 515–690 |
| Yield Strength 0.2% (MPa) | 215–275 | 205–290 |
| Elongation (%) | ≥ 40% | ≥ 40% |
| Hardness (HRB) | 70–90 | 80–95 |
SUS316 vs SUS304 Stainless Steel: Corrosion Resistance
SUS316 has superior corrosion resistance compared to SUS304 due to its added molybdenum, making it ideal for harsh environments like coastal areas and chemical processing. SUS304 has excellent corrosion resistance in milder conditions, such as home kitchens and food processing, and is more cost-effective.
| Feature | SUS316 | SUS304 |
|---|---|---|
| Key Alloying Element | Molybdenum (Mo) is added, making up 2-3% of the composition. | Primarily chromium and nickel, with no molybdenum. |
| Chloride Resistance | Significantly higher resistance to chloride-induced corrosion (pitting and crevice corrosion). | Susceptible to pitting and crevice corrosion in warm chloride environments. |
| Environment Suitability | Ideal for harsh environments including: marine, chemical, medical, and high-salt areas. | Suitable for general-purpose use in mild to moderate environments like: food processing, home kitchens, and fresh water. |
SUS316 vs SUS304 Stainless Steel: High-Temperature Strength
Due to its higher molybdenum content, SUS316 stainless steel generally exhibits superior high-temperature strength and corrosion resistance compared to SUS304 stainless steel, making it more suitable for harsh high-temperature or corrosive environments. Both stainless steels can withstand temperatures up to approximately 870°C (1600°F) during continuous use, but the added molybdenum in SUS316 enhances its oxidation resistance and allows it to maintain its strength even under prolonged high-temperature exposure.
| Feature | SUS304 | SUS316 |
|---|---|---|
| High-Temperature Strength | It's good, but continuous exposure to temperatures of 425-860°C (797-1580°F) can lead to corrosion. | (Superior, maintains strength andoxidation resistance better thanSUS304 in high-temperatureapplications. |
Is SUS316 harder to weld than SUS304?
Both are austenitic stainless steels and weldable, but SUS316 may require slightly more care due to its molybdenum content to avoid welding defects.
Why Choose Gnee for SUS304 and SUS316 Stainless Steel?
18+ years of experience supplying premium stainless steel worldwide.
Wide range of stock, including sheets, plates, pipes, and coils.
Custom fabrication: cutting, slitting, polishing, and bending.
Quality guaranteed: ISO, SGS, BV certified products.
Email: info@gneestainless.com
Packaging, Delivery & Payment Terms
Packaging: Seaworthy wooden crates, anti-corrosion wrapping, or palletized packing for pipes/coils.
Delivery: CIF, FOB, or EXW based on buyer location.
Payment Terms: T/T (30% deposit, 70% before shipment), L/C at sight, or negotiated terms for bulk orders.
Lead Time: 7–15 days for stock items; 20–30 days for custom sizes.
