What is the meaning of Inox 316?
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What is the meaning of Inox 316?
The word "Inox" originates from the French word "inoxydable," meaning "non-oxidizing" or "stainless steel."Therefore, Inox 316 refers to AISI 316 stainless steel, an austenitic chromium-nickel-molybdenum alloy with superior corrosion resistance compared to 304 stainless steel. Due to the addition of 2-3% molybdenum (Mo), 316 stainless steel is often referred to as marine-grade stainless steel, which significantly improves its resistance to chloride corrosion, pitting corrosion, and acidic environments.
Inox 316 Stainless Steel Chemical Composition (Typical, % by weight)
| Element | Symbol | Percentage (%) |
|---|---|---|
| Carbon | C | ≤ 0.08 |
| Chromium | Cr | 16.0 – 18.0 |
| Nickel | Ni | 10.0 – 14.0 |
| Molybdenum | Mo | 2.00 – 3.00 |
| Manganese | Mn | ≤ 2.00 |
| Silicon | Si | ≤ 1.00 |
| Phosphorus | P | ≤ 0.045 |
| Sulfur | S | ≤ 0.030 |
| Nitrogen | N | ≤ 0.10 |
| Iron | Fe | Balance |
Inox 316 Stainless Steel Mechanical Properties
| Property | Typical Value | Unit | Standard Reference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Tensile Strength (Rm) | 515 – 690 | MPa | ASTM A240 / EN 10088 |
| Yield Strength (Rp0.2) | ≥ 205 | MPa | ASTM A240 |
| Elongation (A5) | ≥ 40 | % | ASTM A240 |
| Hardness (Brinell) | ≤ 217 | HB | ASTM E10 |
| Density | 8.00 | g/cm³ | EN ISO 3506 |
| Modulus of Elasticity | 193 | GPa | EN 10088 |
| Thermal Conductivity (at 100°C) | 16.3 | W/m·K | EN 10088 |
| Electrical Resistivity (at 20°C) | 0.74 | µΩ·m | EN 10088 |
| Melting Range | 1370 – 1400 | °C | EN 10095 |
| Magnetic Permeability | ≤ 1.02 (non-magnetic in annealed condition) | - | ASTM A342 |
What is the difference between Inox 316 and 316L?
The main difference between Inox 316L and 316 is the carbon content, with 316L having a significantly lower carbon content (0.03% max) than 316 (0.08% max). This lower carbon in 316L makes it more resistant to sensitization and "weld decay," making it the preferred choice for applications that involve welding or are exposed to high temperatures.
Is Inox 316 magnetic?
No, it is non-magnetic in annealed condition but may show slight magnetism after cold forming.
Can Inox 316 be used in seawater?
Yes, 316 performs very well in brackish and coastal environments, but for constant seawater immersion, consider 316Ti or duplex stainless steel.
If you are looking for high-quality Inox 316 stainless steel for your industrial projects, Gnee offers a complete range of plates, coils, tubes, and fittings made from AISI 316 / EN 1.4401 / X5CrNiMo17-12-2 stainless steel. We specialize in providing corrosion-resistant, heat-resistant, and marine-grade materials that meet ASTM, EN, JIS, and DIN standards - ideal for chemical, marine, food, and pharmaceutical industries.
| Product Type | Specification Range | Surface Finish | Standard |
|---|---|---|---|
| Plates & Sheets | Thickness: 0.3–80 mm, Width: 1000–2500 mm | 2B, BA, No.4, Mirror | ASTM A240 / EN 10088 |
| Pipes & Tubes | OD: 6–630 mm, WT: 0.5–20 mm | Annealed, Polished, Pickled | ASTM A312 / A213 |
| Coils & Strips | Thickness: 0.3–6 mm | 2B, BA, No.4 | ASTM A240 |
| Bars & Rods | Diameter: 4–300 mm | Bright, Peeled | ASTM A276 |
| Fittings & Flanges | Elbows, Reducers, Caps, etc. | Mirror / Satin | ASME B16.9 / B16.5 |
All Gnee products come with EN 10204 3.1 / 3.2 mill certificates, chemical and mechanical test reports, and optional NDT / PMI inspection.
