316 - Copper Alloys

316 is seen as the first rung on the ladder of corrosion resistant metals. When the Chromium in the alloy reacts with oxygen, it forms an oxygenated layer that protects the metal from corrosion. General corrosion resistance is good, but higher Chloride levels, surface contamination and under crevice conditions, the alloy suffers from shockingly high rates of corrosion.

Equivalent Specifications

UNS S31603

Key Features

316 stainless steel contains an addition of molybdenum that gives it improved corrosion resistance. This is particularly apparent for pitting and crevice corrosion in chloride environments.

316L, the low carbon version of 316 stainless steel, is immune to grain boundary carbide precipitation (sensitisation). This makes it suited to use in heavy gauge (over about 6mm) welded components.

Typical Uses

316 stainless steel has good machinability. Machining can be enhanced using the following rules:

Cutting edges must be kept sharp. Dull edges cause excess work hardening.
Cuts should be light but deep enough to prevent work hardening by riding on the surface of the material.
Chip breakers should be employed to assist in ensuring swarf remains clear of the work
Low thermal conductivity of austenitic alloys results in heat concentrating at the cutting edges. This means coolants and lubricants are necessary and must be used in large quantities.

Description	Austenitic Stainless Steel
Nominal Composition	FeCr18Ni12
Alloy Type	wrought

Typical Mechanical Properties

Tensile Strength (N/mm²)	500
Proof/Yield Strength (N/mm²)	200
Elongation (%)	40
Hardness Brinell	215
Impact Izod J20°C

Typical Physical Properties

Density g/cm³	8.0
Melting Temperature Range °C	1400 - 1400
Thermal Conductivity W/mK	16.3
Electrical Resistivity μΩ.m15°C	74
Coefficient of Thermal Expansion 0-250°C	18
Relative Magnetic Permeability	1.02
Coefficient of Friction	0.58

Copper Alloys has the ability to modify existing alloys for improved performance. Many customers have benefited from this in the past.

To discuss your requirements, call a member of Copper Alloys’s technical team on +44 (0) 1782-816888, or email [email protected].

This Data is indicative only and must not be seen as a substitute for the full specification from which it is drawn. In particular, the mechanical property requirements vary widely with tempeter, product and product dimensions. The information is based on our present knowledge and is given in good faith. However, no liability will be accepted by the Company in respect of any action taken by any third party in reliance thereon.

As the products detailed may be used for a wide variety of purposes and as the Company has no control over their use; the Company specifically excludes all conditions or warranties expressed or implied by statute or otherwise as to dimensions, properties and/or fitness for any particular purpose.

Any advice given by the Company to any third party is given for that party’s assistance only and without liability on the part of the Company. Any contract between the Company and a customer will be subject to the Company’s Conditions of Sale. The extent of the Company’s liabilities to any customer is clearly set out in those Conditions, a copy of which is available on request.