Stainless steel · EN 10088-2
1.4404 (316L)
Also known as: 1.4404, 316L, X2CrNiMo17-12-2
Overview
Low-carbon 316L (1.4404) for welded fabrications where carbide precipitation and intergranular corrosion must be avoided.
Typical supply: Sheet, plate, tube, bar — weldable
Mechanical Properties
Thermal Properties
For temperature derating, open Temperature Properties.
Physical Properties
Typical supply: Sheet, plate, tube, bar — weldable
Density typically ~7800–8000 kg/m³ depending on alloy family.
Applications
- Welded tanks and vessels
- Piping systems
- Pharmaceutical tubing
- Marine fabrications
Advantages
- Inherent corrosion resistance without thick coatings
- Hygienic finish options for process plant
- Good toughness over a wide temperature range (austenitic)
Limitations
- Higher cost than carbon structural steel
- Chloride stress-corrosion risk for some grades/environments
- Lower thermal conductivity than carbon steel or aluminum
Standards
- EN 10088-2 — Stainless steels — sheet/plate/strip
- ASTM A240 — 316L plate/sheet
- ASME II — Boiler and pressure vessel materials (selected)
Equivalent Materials
Electrical Properties
Chemical Composition
| Element | Min wt% | Max wt% | Typical wt% |
|---|---|---|---|
| C | — | 0.03 | — |
| Si | — | 1 | — |
| Mn | — | 2 | — |
| P | — | 0.045 | — |
| S | — | 0.015 | — |
| Cr | 16.5 | 18.5 | 17 |
| Ni | 10 | 13 | 11 |
| Mo | 2 | 2.5 | 2.1 |
| N | — | 0.1 | — |
Typical / limit values for reference selection only — verify against mill certs for certified work.
Machinability
Slightly softer than 316; still gummy — same tooling approach as 304/316.
Cost
Similar to 316; preferred default for welded stainless fabrications.
Corrosion
Matches 316 pitting resistance with improved weld HAZ corrosion behavior.
- Welded chemical equipmentexcellent
- Marine atmospheregood
- Seawater immersedfair
For allowance / life screening, open Corrosion Allowance.