There are various stainless steel grades, and they are divided into four main groups. The austenitic stainless steel category is among the most significant. Based on their chemical makeup, the austenitic stainless steel alloys are further divided into a number of categories. The 300 series contains one of the stainless steel grades that receives the most attention. These grades are particularly useful in many different fields, such as shipping, maritime engineering, general engineering, the petrochemical industry, pharmaceuticals, and the food business. Given this, grade 316 is the 300 series alloy that is utilized the second most frequently. Grade 316 is changeable, like the majority of austenitic stainless steel alloys. Stainless steels frequently undergo modifications based on their intended use.
The modifications often involve small alterations to the components for given chemical composition, such as additions or deletions. For instance, the alloy of marine grade 316 stainless steel pipe has more carbon. When carbon is exposed to high temperatures, it creates a carbide precipitate that promotes sensitization at grain boundaries. During welding operations, the metal weakens as a result of the sensitization. Because some melting of the metal is required to fuse it to the other part or to fuse it to itself to make a complete part, welding temperatures are frequently greater. Therefore, compared to the remaining surface of the component, the melted portion, which is the heat impacted weld zone, tends to have inferior corrosion resistance qualities.
Difference in Price
Although the alloy undergoes elemental changes, the material may still be dual certified because the changes are usually quite slight. The dual-certified alloy will be marked as 316/316L as a result. As a result, the cost of both of these alloys would be nearly the same.
Comparison between 316 and 316l
Manufacturers also add nitrogen to the alloy of stainless steel grade 316L, which has a reduced carbon content. The alloy should contain nitrogen for a number of reasons. First, as carbon is reduced, stainless steel grade 316’s total mechanical strength declines. Second, it loses some of its tolerance to heat. Grade 316L, however, can be welded without any sensitivity to intergranular corrosion because of the reduced amount of carbon in its chemistry.