While using steel, many people are confused between SS 304 and SS 316, which steel grade to use in the working environment so that the material used in the application should last for a long time. The material can be anything used in the form of fastener, bolt, rod, sheets, plate, pipe etc. so here we will help you to select best grade of steel suited for your product and application.
So now let us discuss the difference between 304(18-8 Stainless steel) vs 316(18/10 Stainless steel)
SS 304/18-8 stainless steel/A2 Stainless
18-8 stainless steel is also referred to as 304 stainless steel because the chemical composition is the same in both 18-8 & 304 SS. The no 18-8 represent the chemical composition, i.e. chromium 18% and nickel 8%, which make it excellent resistance to corrosion. In 304 there two more grade, i.e. 304L, which is low carbon grade and 304H, which is high carbon grade and 304 is general grade. SS 304 also known as A2 stainless.
Let us talk about the pros and cons of AISI 304 or 18-8 stainless steel
Pros :
- High corrosion resistance
- Less heat sensitive than 302
- Stronger than mild steels
Cons :
- Vulnerable to saltwater corrosion
- Requires proper tools to machine well
- 304/18-8 SS should be used when the low cost is more important than corrosion resistance and not working in a marine environment and product is not exposed in a corrosive environment.
Application of 304(18-8 Stainless steel) :
- Appliances such as refrigerators & dishwashers
- Commercial food processing equipment
- Heat exchangers
- Structures in atmospheres that would corrode standard carbon steel.
SS 316/18-10 stainless steel/A4 Stainless :
SS 316 contains 16% chromium and 10% nickel and other elements; therefore, it is also referred to as 18-10 stainless steel. SS 316 have other grades like 316L, which is a low carbon grade, 316F free machining grade and 316N, which is high nitrogen grade. It is suitable for marine and high salinity environment. It is also called A4 stainless.
Let us talk about the pros and cons of AISI 316 or 18-10 stainless steel
Pros :
- Stronger than 304 stainless
- Extremely corrosion resistant
- performs well against pitting
- Resistant to salt water
- Resistant to caustic chemicals
Cons :
- Requires the precise tools to machine well
- More expensive than 304
- SS 316 is used when corrosion resistance is more significant than cost and if we are working in a marine environment and with corrosive chemicals
Application of 316(18-10 Stainless steel) :
- Chemical processing and storage equipment.
- Refinery equipment
- Medical devices
- Marine environments, especially those with chlorides present
Summary :
So depending upon working environment and the product budget best grade should be selected to create a project so that it can last for a longer time in a working environment because in some cases SS 304 work better and in some cases, SS 316 work better
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FAQ - Frequently Asked Question :
Is 18/10 stainless steel the same as 304 ?
No, Grade 18/10( 316) and Grade 304 ( 18/8) are not the same because they have different characteristics and properties. The chemical composition of 316 includes a high amount of nickel that is 10%, whereas grade 304 contains 8% nickel content. Grade 316 and 304 stainless steel grades belong to the 300 steel series. Grade 18/10 is highly used for industrial and commercial uses, and these grades are known for their elasticity and durability.
Is 18/10 stainless steel the same as 316 ?
Yes, 316 is commonly known as 18/10 in Indian and international markets. The grade 18/10 stainless steel is one of the most ductile grades, and it has 10% nickel and 18% chromium content. The chemical composition provides excellent resistance to various chemical reactions. Grade 18/10 provides high resistance from corrosion, crevice corrosion, and stress cracking. The creep and rupture strength of these grades is also very high.
Is B8 and 304 are same?
No, both the grades are different but they are enriched with similar properties. This grade is designed to get installed at high-temperature applications. Grade B8 and 304 have similar properties and features. B8 and 304 provide high corrosion resistance, crevice corrosion, and stress-cracking at the estimated temperature.
Is B8M and 316 are same?
Yes, B8M is a specification for the metal grade. Stainless steel 316 grade is highly efficient and is made for high-temperature applications. These grades are commonly used for industrial and commercial working. This grade is enriched with excellent characteristics and properties, which makes it the most unique and demanded grade in the markets. It also has high tensile and yield strength. This grade is highly weldable and provides grade stability.