Stainless Steel 316
Verified by Mel Sykes, Industrial Supply Chain Specialist - April 2026
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Designation | 1.4401 (EN), AISI 316, A4 (fastener grade) |
| Composition | 16% Cr, 10% Ni, 2% Mo, 0.08% C max |
| Tensile strength | 520-680 MPa |
| Advantage | Molybdenum gives chloride/pitting resistance. Marine, pharmaceutical, chemical. |
| Cost | Typically 20-30% more than 304 |
What are Stainless Steel 316?
Stainless Steel 316 is a high-alloy austenitic stainless steel known for its excellent resistance to corrosion and pitting in chloride-rich environments like marine settings.
Types and variants
Common types of Stainless Steel 316 include EN 1.4401, AISI 316, A4 (fastener grade), and EN 1.4402 (low carbon version). These grades differ slightly in composition but all offer superior resistance to corrosion compared to other stainless steel grades.
Materials and specifications
Stainless Steel 316 is designated as 1.4401 according to the European standard EN 10088-2, AISI 316 under American standards, and A4 for fasteners. The material contains 16% chromium (Cr), 10% nickel (Ni), and 2% molybdenum (Mo). The maximum carbon content is 0.08%, which helps maintain corrosion resistance while ensuring mechanical strength.
Selection criteria
To choose Stainless Steel 316, consider applications where chloride exposure or high temperatures are factors. It's ideal for marine environments due to its molybdenum content, which enhances pitting and crevice corrosion resistance. For instance, in seawater systems, 316 performs better than the less expensive AISI 304 grade.
UK suppliers
MLC lists verified UK suppliers from Companies House, such as Sheffield Fasteners Ltd., Stainless Steel Company UK, and Airedale Engineering Components. These companies supply a range of components like bolts, nuts, washers, and sheets in various dimensions and finishes to meet ISO standards.
Common applications
Stainless Steel 316 finds use across multiple industries due to its durability and resistance to corrosion. Key applications include:
- Marine equipment: mooring systems, propeller shafts. - Chemical processing plants: piping, tanks, valves operating at temperatures up to 500°C (932°F). - Food and beverage industry: sanitary tubing, storage tanks, and kitchen utensils. - Pharmaceutical manufacturing: fluid handling systems requiring sterile conditions.
Stainless Steel 316 is also widely used in architectural applications like roofing, cladding, and railings where weather resistance and aesthetic appeal are important. Its versatility makes it a preferred choice for demanding environments that require low maintenance and long-term durability.
References
Verified UK Suppliers
| Company | Company No. | Location |
|---|---|---|
| Guru Nanak Aerospace Uk Ltd | 12348300 | Unit 4b Brookside, Friar Street, Wednesbury, WS10 |
| Geoturn Limited | SC101558 | 7 Hagholm Road, Cleghorn, Lanark, ML11 7SG |
| Amc Engineering Limited | SC115040 | Union Plaza (6th Floor), 1 Union Wynd, Aberdeen, A |
| Brown Engineering (Fochabers) Limited | SC133946 | 319 St Vincent Street, Glasgow, G2 5AS |
| Wally & Sow Ltd | 12948118 | 9 Uist Walk, Corby, NN17 2LZ |
Frequently Asked Questions
What are Stainless Steel 316?
Stainless Steel 316 are engineering components used in industrial applications. Browse verified UK suppliers on MLC.
Where can I buy Stainless Steel 316 in the UK?
MLC lists verified UK stainless steel 316 suppliers with Companies House data. Browse by product category or search by location.
What are the key differences between Stainless Steel 316 and its low carbon variant?
The low carbon version of Stainless Steel 316, designated as EN 1.4402, is designed to reduce intergranular corrosion risk by limiting carbon content. This makes it ideal for applications requiring welding without post-weld annealing.
How do I choose between Stainless Steel 316 and AISI 304?
When deciding between Stainless Steel 316 and AISI 304, consider the environment where the material will be used. Stainless Steel 316 has a higher molybdenum content, making it more resistant to chloride-induced corrosion and pitting compared to AISI 304.
What are some common standards for Stainless Steel 316?
Stainless Steel 316 is designated as 1.4401 according to the European standard EN 10088-2, AISI 316 in American standards, and A4 for fasteners. These designations ensure that the material meets specific chemical composition and mechanical property requirements.
Where can I find Stainless Steel 316 suppliers in the UK?
To find Stainless Steel 316 suppliers in the UK, you can visit websites of major metal distributors such as BSI Group or search through industry directories like mlc.org.uk. These platforms list companies that offer a wide range of stainless steel grades including AISI 316.
What is Stainless Steel 316 and why is it preferred in marine environments?
Stainless Steel 316 is a high-alloy austenitic stainless steel known for its excellent resistance to corrosion and pitting, especially in chloride-rich environments like the marine setting. This is due to the addition of molybdenum which enhances its chloride/pitting resistance.
What are the common types and variants of Stainless Steel 316?
Common types of Stainless Steel 316 include EN 1.4401, AISI 316, A4 (fastener grade), and EN 1.4402 (low carbon version). These grades offer superior resistance to corrosion compared to other stainless steel grades.
How should I choose between Stainless Steel 316 and other similar grades?
When choosing Stainless Steel 316 over other grades like AISI 304, consider applications requiring higher chloride or pitting resistance. The addition of molybdenum in Stainless Steel 316 provides enhanced protection against corrosive environments such as marine settings.
What is the cost comparison between Stainless Steel 316 and other stainless steel grades?
Typically, Stainless Steel 316 costs about 20-30% more than AISI 304 due to its higher alloy content which offers better corrosion resistance. This increased cost reflects its enhanced performance in demanding environments.