Stainless steel 304 and 316 are two common stainless steel materials, and their main differences lie in their chemical composition, corrosion resistance, and application scenarios. Below is a detailed analysis of the differences between the two and which one is more suitable for different situations:

Main differences:

1. Chemical composition

304 stainless steel

Chromium (Cr): 18% -20%

Nickel (Ni): 8% -10.5%

Carbon (C): ≤ 0.08%

Manganese (Mn): ≤ 2%

316 stainless steel

Chromium (Cr): 16% -18%

Nickel (Ni): 10% -14%

Molybdenum (Mo): 2% -3% (unique to 316)

Carbon (C): ≤ 0.08%

Manganese (Mn): ≤ 2%

316 stainless steel has added molybdenum (Mo) element, making it superior to 304 in terms of corrosion resistance.

2. Corrosion resistance performance

304 stainless steel

Has good corrosion resistance to ordinary acidic, alkaline, and salt solutions, suitable for daily environments, but is prone to pitting or corrosion in strong acid and alkali environments and chloride (such as seawater) environments.

316 stainless steel

Due to the addition of molybdenum element, it has stronger resistance to chloride corrosion and is particularly suitable for use in high salt, high humidity or highly corrosive environments, such as marine equipment, chemical equipment, etc.

3. Mechanical properties

The difference in strength and toughness between the two is not significant, but 316 has slightly higher high-temperature strength.

4. Price

Due to the higher content of nickel and molybdenum in 316, the production cost is higher, resulting in a significantly higher price for 316 compared to 304.

Which one is better?

1. Choose according to the purpose:

Select scenario 304:

Household appliances: tableware, sinks, pots, refrigerator walls, etc.

Architectural decoration: railings, stair handrails, door and window frames, etc.

Industrial applications without strict corrosion requirements: storage tanks, pipelines, etc.

Choose scene 316:

Highly corrosive environment: seaside buildings, ship components, seawater desalination equipment.

Medical devices: implants, surgical instruments, etc. (requiring extremely high corrosion resistance).

Chemical industry: equipment or containers that come into contact with strong acids, strong bases, and chlorides.

2. Performance comparison: If it is in a normal environment or cost sensitive situation, 304 is more practical; If it is in a highly corrosive environment (such as the seaside or chemical plant), 316 performs better.

summary

Cost effectiveness: 304 is suitable for most daily needs, with low cost and sufficient performance.

Corrosion resistance: 316 is suitable for extreme environments due to its stronger corrosion resistance.

Selection guide: If unsure of specific needs, prioritize 304; If the budget is sufficient and the requirements for corrosion resistance are high, choose 316.