Introduction
AISI 316L stainless steel coil is a versatile and widely used austenitic stainless steel renowned for its exceptional corrosion resistance, excellent formability, and a smooth surface finish. This low-carbon variation of the popular AISI 316 grade offers improved resistance to specific types of corrosion, making it ideal for demanding environments.
Composition
AISI 316L shares the core elements of 316 stainless steel, with the key addition of a lower carbon content:
Chromium (16-18%): Provides the foundation for overall corrosion resistance.
Nickel (10-14%): Enhances corrosion resistance and formability.
Molybdenum (2-3%): Significantly improves resistance to pitting corrosion, particularly in chloride-containing environments.
Low Carbon Content (Less than 0.03%): Minimizes the risk of chromium carbide precipitation during welding, a phenomenon that can deteriorate corrosion resistance in the weld zone of standard 316 stainless steel.
Characteristics
Exceptional Corrosion Resistance: AISI 316L offers superior corrosion resistance compared to 304L stainless steel, particularly in environments with chlorides (like saltwater) or other aggressive chemicals.
Good Formability: AISI 316L exhibits excellent formability, allowing for shaping and drawing during fabrication. This makes it ideal for applications requiring complex shapes.
Improved Weldability: Similar to 304L, the lower carbon content minimizes chromium carbide precipitation, leading to better weldability and reduced risk of corrosion around the weld zone. Proper welding procedures are still recommended.
Strength and Hardness: While not the strongest stainless steel, 316L offers moderate strength and hardness compared to other austenitic grades. These properties can be further enhanced through cold working.
Temperature Resistance: AISI 316L exhibits good resistance to oxidation and maintains its strength at elevated temperatures up to 870°C (1598°F).
Ductile: AISI 316L is ductile, meaning it can deform under stress without breaking, making it suitable for applications requiring some flexibility.
Uses
Due to its exceptional corrosion resistance, improved weldability, and good formability, AISI 316L stainless steel coil finds application in various demanding environments, including:
Chemical Processing Equipment: Tanks, piping, and vessels handling harsh chemicals, especially those containing chlorides, benefit from the superior corrosion resistance of 316L.
Marine Applications: Components exposed to saltwater environments, such as boat fittings, railings, and heat exchangers, utilize 316L due to its exceptional resistance to pitting corrosion.
Food Processing Equipment: Tanks, containers, and utensils used in food processing can benefit from the corrosion resistance, cleanability, and formability of 316L, especially when handling acidic or salty foods.
Architectural Applications: Building facades, railings, trim, and decorative elements in coastal areas or polluted environments often utilize 316L due to its aesthetics, formability, corrosion resistance, and suitability for welding.
Pharmaceutical and Medical Equipment: Components requiring high corrosion resistance and cleanability, such as sterilizing equipment or certain medical implants, can be made from 316L.
Product Specifications
| Specification | Description |
| Grades | 304. 304L, 316. 316L, 310S, 321. 410. 430. and more |
| Thickness | Ranges from 0.1mm to 20mm |
| Width | From 600mm to 1500mm, catering to specific project needs |
| Weight | Coils can be supplied in standard and custom weights, depending on customer requirements |
| Surface Finishes | 2B (mill finish), BA (bright annealed), No.4 (brushed), Mirror (reflective finish), and Satin (soft sheen finish) |
| Surface Treatments | Annealing, Pickling, Passivation, and Polishing for enhanced corrosion resistance and appearance |
Additional Points
AISI 316L comes in various standard specifications, such as ASTM A240/ASME SA240. ensuring consistent material properties.
AISI 316L is not magnetic in its annealed (untreated) state. However, it can become slightly magnetic after cold working.
When high formability and good corrosion resistance are the primary concerns, and molybdenum is not a specific requirement, AISI 304L might be a suitable alternative at a slightly lower cost.
