316 stainless steel pipe

Grade 316 is a standard molybdenum-containing grade, second only to 304 in importance among austenitic stainless steels. Molybdenum gives 316 better overall corrosion resistance than the 304 grade, particularly greater resistance to pitting and crevice corrosion in chloride environments. It has excellent forming and welding properties. It is easily braked or roll-formed into a variety of parts for use in industry, construction and transportation. Grade 316 also has excellent welding properties. Post-weld annealing is not required when welding thin sections.

Grade 316L is a lower carbon version of 316 and does not undergo sensitization (grain boundary carbide precipitation). Therefore it is widely used in large-sized welded parts (about 6 mm or more). The 316H grade has a higher carbon content and can be used at high temperatures, as does the stabilized grade 316Ti.

The austenitic structure also gives these grades excellent toughness, even at low temperatures.