What is the difference between V4A and ss316?
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What is V4A stainless steel?
Stainless steel V4A is an austenitic stainless steel that includes molybdenum, making it highly resistant to corrosion, especially from saltwater and acids. It is also known as A4 stainless steel and is often equivalent to grades like AISI 316, 1.4401, or 1.4404. This makes it suitable for harsh environments such as marine applications, chemical plants, and outdoor structures.
V4A stainless steel equivalent
V4A is an older designation for a high-quality austenitic stainless steel, with its main equivalents being the European standard 1.4404, the American standard AISI 316L, and the general designation A4. It is known for its excellent corrosion resistance due to the addition of molybdenum and is often used for applications involving saltwater or chemicals.
What is the equivalent of 316 stainless steel?
The equivalents for 316 stainless steel include the European EN grade 1.4401, the Japanese JIS grade SUS316, and the British BS grade 316S31. It is also sometimes referred to as A4 in metric fastener standards. For applications where lower carbon is needed, 316L is the equivalent, with its own designations such as 1.4404 and 316S11.
Is V4A stainless steel the same as 316?
Yes, V4A stainless steel is essentially the same as AISI 316 or AISI 316L, with V4A being the German standard designation for this type of high-molybdenum, corrosion-resistant steel. The key similarity is their composition, which includes chromium, nickel, and molybdenum, giving them excellent resistance to corrosion in aggressive environments.
Chemical Composition
| Element | V4A (EN 1.4404 / SS316L) | SS316 (ASTM A240 / 1.4401) |
|---|---|---|
| Carbon (C) | ≤ 0.03% | ≤ 0.08% |
| Chromium (Cr) | 16–18% | 16–18% |
| Nickel (Ni) | 10–12% | 10–14% |
| Molybdenum (Mo) | 2–3% | 2–3% |
| Manganese (Mn) | ≤ 2% | ≤ 2% |
| Phosphorus (P) | ≤ 0.045% | ≤ 0.045% |
| Sulfur (S) | ≤ 0.015% | ≤ 0.03% |
| Nitrogen (N) | ≤ 0.11% | ≤ 0.1% |
| Iron (Fe) | Balance | Balance |
Mechanical Properties
| Mechanical Property | V4A (1.4404 / SS316L) | SS316 (1.4401 / ASTM A240) |
|---|---|---|
| Yield Strength (Rp0.2) | 200–290 MPa | 205–310 MPa |
| Tensile Strength (Rm) | 500–700 MPa | 520–720 MPa |
| Elongation (A5) | ≥ 40% | ≥ 40% |
| Hardness (HB) | 170–210 | 170–220 |
| Density | 7.9 g/cm³ | 7.9 g/cm³ |
| Melting Range | 1370–1400°C | 1370–1400°C |
| Magnetic Response | Non-magnetic | Non-magnetic |
What is the difference between V2A and V4A stainless steel?
The main difference is that V4A stainless steel is more corrosion-resistant than V2A because it contains additional molybdenum. V2A (or 1.4301/AISI 304) is good for general use, while V4A (or 1.4401/1.4404/AISI 316) is used in high-chloride environments like swimming pools, the chemical industry, and marine applications. Both are types of austenitic stainless steel.
| Feature | V2A (AISI 304) | V4A (AISI 316) |
|---|---|---|
| Primary Composition | ~18% Chromium, ~8% Nickel | ~16-18% Chromium, ~10-12% Nickel, ~2-3% Molybdenum |
| Corrosion Resistance | Good general resistance to rust and corrosion | Higher resistance, especially to chloride-containing media (salt water, chemicals) |
| Common Applications | Indoor use, food and pharmaceutical industries, general hardware | Swimming pools, marine environments, chemical plants, shipbuilding |
| Other Names | 1.4301, A2 | 1.4401, 1.4404, 1.4571, A4 |
who choose us?
If you have any project needs for 316L 1.4404 stainless steel bars, please feel free to place an order. GNEE has a large inventory of popular products for your selection. They can be processed into various practical product forms, including plates, coils, pipes, bars, and wires. For detailed chemical composition and free samples, please contact our factory immediately. We offer competitive prices and excellent service.Email: info@gneestainless.com
