Investment Cast 316 Stainless Steel
Leave a message
What Is Investment Cast 316 Stainless Steel?
Investment cast 316 stainless steel (also known as lost-wax cast 316 SS) is a corrosion-resistant austenitic stainless steel alloy containing 16–18% chromium, 10–14% nickel, and 2–3% molybdenum. The addition of molybdenum provides superior resistance to pitting, crevice corrosion, and saltwater environments compared with 304 stainless steel.
This casting method produces complex-shaped components with tight dimensional tolerances and smooth surface finishes, making it ideal for marine, chemical, food processing, and medical equipment applications.
What's the difference between cast 316 and wrought 316 stainless steel?
Investment cast 316 (CF8M) has the same composition as wrought 316 but may contain minor segregation due to solidification. However, mechanical and corrosion properties are comparable when properly heat-treated.
Investment Cast 316 Stainless Steel Specification
| Parameter | Details |
|---|---|
| Material Standard | ASTM A351 CF8M / A743 CF8M / A744 CF8M |
| Chemical Composition (Typical) | Cr 16–18%, Ni 10–14%, Mo 2–3%, C ≤0.08%, Mn ≤2%, Si ≤1%, P ≤0.045%, S ≤0.03% |
| Density | 7.98 g/cm³ |
| Tensile Strength | ≥ 515 MPa |
| Yield Strength (0.2% offset) | ≥ 205 MPa |
| Elongation | ≥ 40% |
| Hardness (Brinell) | ≤ 217 HB |
| Heat Treatment | Solution Annealed at 1040–1150°C and water quenched |
| Surface Finish | As-cast, sand-blasted, shot-blasted, or machined |
| Casting Tolerance | ±0.1 mm to ±0.5 mm depending on size |
| Size Range | 10 g to 100 kg per piece (customizable) |
Key Advantages of Precision Casting 316 Stainless Steel
Superior Corrosion Resistance:
It exhibits superior corrosion resistance compared to 304 and 304L stainless steels in chloride and acidic environments. It is resistant to corrosion in marine environments, saltwater, and chemical processing systems.
High Precision and Smooth Surface:
Precision casting processes can produce parts with a surface roughness Ra ≤ 3.2 μm, reducing processing costs.
Excellent Mechanical Strength and Durability:
It maintains stable mechanical properties at temperatures up to 870°C (1600°F). It retains good ductility and toughness even after prolonged exposure to harsh environments.
Design Flexible:
It can be used to manufacture complex geometries, thin-walled, and high-precision parts. Ideal for components such as impellers, valve bodies, pump casings, and marine fittings.
Can 316 stainless steel investment castings be welded or machined?
Yes, Gnee's castings can be CNC machined, TIG welded, or polished after casting, maintaining mechanical integrity.
How accurate is investment casting for complex parts?
Dimensional accuracy can reach ±0.1 mm, with surface finish up to Ra 3.2 μm, minimizing post-processing.
Investment Cast 316 Stainless Steel Price
Prices vary based on weight, complexity, and finish.
Rough casting price: USD $5.8 – $7.2 per kg
Machined and polished castings: USD $8.5 – $11.5 per kg
Bulk order discounts available for long-term OEM customers.
Gnee's Supply Advantage for Investment Cast 316 Stainless Steel
Gnee offers custom precision investment castings in 316 stainless steel, supporting both small and large-batch orders.Email: info@gneestainless.com
Our capabilities ensure reliability, consistency, and high-quality performance:
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Casting Method | Lost-wax (silica sol) investment casting |
| Capacity | From 10 g to 100 kg per piece |
| Machining Services | CNC, turning, drilling, grinding, and polishing |
| Surface Treatment | Mirror polish, passivation, sand blasting, or electro-polishing |
| Testing & Certification | 100% dimensional inspection, chemical & mechanical test reports (EN 10204 3.1) |
| Delivery Time | 15–25 days depending on complexity |
| MOQ | Flexible (from 10 pcs) |
| Packaging | Anti-rust protection, wooden crates, or custom export packaging |
