Distinguishes Marine Grade 316 Stainless Steel From Other Grades
Stainless steel is popular for a variety of consumer products, including cutlery, because it provides durability and is easy to clean. It is also a cost effective material for manufacturers to use to create these durable goods. Stainless steel is naturally resistant to corrosion, especially in harsh environments like seawater. 316 marine grade stainless steel is used in a variety of industrial and commercial applications that require strong anti-corrosive properties, such as shower drains.
Whether you live in an urban area or rural setting, chances are you are exposed to harsh outdoor conditions that can cause pitting and crevice corrosion of stainless steel components. These corrosion conditions are caused by chlorides, which can attack the protective chromium layers that stainless steel is known for. Marine grade 316 is specially made to be more resistant to chlorides, making it ideal for oceanic or saline environments.
Although many of the same characteristics make up both 304 and 316 grade stainless steel, there are a few key differences that set marine-grade 316 apart from other grades. Both grades are austenitic, contain high levels of chromium (18-20%) and nickel (8-12%), as well as smaller amounts of carbon, manganese, molybdenum, and silicon. Both grades are also non-magnetic and have good formability and weldability.
However, whereas 304 grade is susceptible to chloride corrosion, marine-grade 316 contains 2-3% molybdenum, which significantly increases its resistance to this corrosion. This is due to molybdenum’s ability to form a strong and stable oxide layer, which protects the underlying chromium. Other grades of stainless steel may have higher concentrations of molybdenum, but these higher levels do not provide the level of corrosion protection found in marine grade 316.
What Distinguishes Marine Grade 316 Stainless Steel From Other Grades?
In addition to its excellent chloride resistance, 316 marine-grade also offers superior resistance to other processing chemicals and to oxidising acids with low to moderate concentrations. This makes it a popular choice for manufacturing equipment that is frequently exposed to a variety of chemicals, as well as for coastal and outdoor locations where de-icing salts are used.
While 316 stainless steel is more expensive than other grades, the strength and corrosion resistance it offers make it an excellent option for marine environments and other harsh applications. Its longevity is proven time and again when used in items such as marine-grade decorative drains, which are designed for long-term exposure to salt water, harsh cleaning products, and other challenging environmental factors. If you need more information about the different grades of stainless steel or the marine-grade 316 products we carry, please contact us. Our expert team is happy to help! Our company has been in business for over 18 years, and we look forward to serving you for many more. Thanks for reading! We hope to see you soon.
In conclusion, marine grade 316 stainless steel stands as a testament to engineering excellence and material innovation, offering unparalleled corrosion resistance, strength, and aesthetics in the demanding marine environment. Its ability to withstand the challenges of saltwater, humidity, and harsh weather conditions makes it an indispensable material for marine structures, vessels, and equipment, ensuring reliability and longevity in maritime operations. As technology advances and industries evolve, marine grade 316 stainless steel remains a steadfast cornerstone, embodying the principles of durability, reliability, and performance in the marine industry and beyond.