Composition & metallurgy

Typically chromium-nickel or chromium-manganese-nickel alloys with low carbon versions available. Molybdenum is added in grades such as 316 for improved pitting resistance.

Common grades

304, 304L, 304H, 316, 316L, 316Ti, 321, 347, 310S and higher-alloy austenitic grades.

Applications

Process piping, tanks, kitchens, dairy and pharmaceutical systems, heat exchangers, architectural components, cryogenic service and general corrosion-resistant fabrication.

Engineering characteristics

Excellent ductility and toughness, generally non-magnetic in solution-annealed condition but may become somewhat magnetic after cold work. Chloride stress-corrosion cracking must be considered.

Known manufacturers

Outokumpu, Acerinox, Aperam, POSCO, Jindal Stainless, Tsingshan, TISCO/Baowu, Nippon Steel and other regional stainless producers.

Specification checks

Confirm the current standard revision, exact product form, heat-treatment condition, mechanical properties, impact requirements where applicable, corrosion environment, welding procedure, dimensions, tolerances, NDT and mill test certification. Similar designations across standards are not automatically equivalent.

Element Folio engineering reference. Manufacturer examples are indicative and product availability changes by plant, region and year.