When comparing 304 stainless steel to 316 stainless steel, it can be difficult to notice the difference between them. However, when manufactured with 304 and 316 stainless steel, the difference can be significant. Read on to learn more about the two most popular types of stainless steel.

304 vs 316: What makes them so popular?
Types 304 and 316 stainless steel contain high levels of chromium and nickel, which make them highly resistant to heat, wear, and corrosion. They are known not only for their corrosion resistance, but also for their clean appearance and overall cleanliness.

Both types of stainless steel are found in a wide range of industries. As the most common grade of stainless steel, 304 is considered the standard "18/8" stainless steel. 304 stainless steel is widely used because of its strong and durable, easy processing into stainless steel plate, stainless steel plate, stainless steel rod, stainless steel tube and other forms. The resistance of 316 steel to chemicals and marine environments makes it a popular choice for manufacturers.
How are they classified?
The five classes of stainless steel are organized according to their crystal structure (the way their atoms are arranged). Of the five grades, 304 and 316 stainless steels are austenitic grades. The structure of austenitic grade stainless steels makes them non-magnetic and prevents them from hardening through heat treatment.

304 stainless steel applications
The medical industry typically uses 304 SS because it can withstand harsh cleaning chemicals without corroding. 304 SS is frequently used in the food industry as one of the few alloys to comply with FDA Sanitary Regulations for food preparation.
common application
Food preparation: fryers, food prep stations
Kitchen Equipment: Cookware, Silverware
Construction: siding, elevators, bathroom cubicles
Medical: trays, surgical tools

Characteristics of 316 stainless steel
chemical composition
316 contains many chemical and mechanical properties similar to 304 stainless steel. To the naked eye, the two metals look the same. However, the chemical composition of 316 consists of 16% chromium, 10% nickel, and 2% molybdenum, which is the main difference between 304 and 316 stainless steel.

Application of 316 stainless steel
The addition of molybdenum to 316 makes it more corrosion resistant than comparable alloys. Due to its excellent corrosion resistance, 316 is one of the main metals used in marine environments. 316 stainless steel is also used in hospitals for its durability and cleanability.

Fun Fact: Chicago Beans are made of 316 Stainless Steel!

Common applications:
Water treatment: boilers, water heaters
Marine Parts - Marine Railings, Wire Ropes, Marine Ladders
medical equipment
chemical processing equipment
304 and 316 Stainless Steel: Heat Resistance
Heat resistance is an important factor to consider when comparing different grades of stainless steel. 304 has a melting range approximately 50 to 100 degrees Fahrenheit higher than 316. Although 304 has a higher melting range than 316, they have good oxidation resistance in intermittent service up to 870°C (1500°F) and in continuous service at 925°C (1697°F).

304 SS: High temperature resistant, but continuous use at 425-860 °C (797-1580 °F) may cause corrosion.
316 Stainless Steel: Performs best at temperatures above 843°C (1550°F) and below 454°C (850°F)
The price difference between 304 stainless steel and 316
What makes 316 more expensive than 304 stainless steel? The increased nickel content of 316 and the addition of molybdenum make it more expensive than 304. On average, the price of 316 stainless steel is 40% higher than that of 304 stainless steel.

316 vs. 304 Stainless Steel: Which Is Better?
When comparing 304 stainless steel and 316 stainless steel, there are pros and cons to consider when deciding which one to use for different applications. For example, 316 stainless steel is more resistant to salt and other corrosion than 304. So if you manufacture products that are regularly exposed to chemicals or marine environments, 316 is the better choice.

On the other hand, if the product you are manufacturing does not require great corrosion resistance, 304 is a practical and economical choice. For many applications, 304 and 316 are practically interchangeable.