SS316L is the low-carbon version of SS316 stainless steel, with about 17% chromium, 12% nickel and 2–3% molybdenum. The low carbon (0.03% max) stops chromium carbides forming next to welds, so welded parts keep their corrosion resistance. It is the usual choice for welded pharma, food, chemical and marine equipment.
Quick facts
- Type
- Austenitic stainless steel with molybdenum
- Carbon
- 0.03% max (SS316: 0.08% max)
- Corrosion
- Better than 304 against chlorides and many chemicals
- Hardening
- Not hardenable by heat treatment; work-hardens
- Magnetic
- No (annealed)
- Weldability
- Excellent, no post-weld annealing needed for most uses
Equivalent grades
| Standard | Grade |
|---|---|
| AISI / ASTM | 316L |
| EN | 1.4404 (X2CrNiMo17-12-2) |
| UNS | S31603 |
| JIS | SUS316L |
Equivalents are close, not identical. Name the grade and standard on the drawing.
Typical chemical composition
| Element | % |
|---|---|
| Carbon (C) | 0.03 max |
| Chromium (Cr) | About 16–18 |
| Nickel (Ni) | About 10–14 |
| Molybdenum (Mo) | About 2–3 |
| Manganese (Mn) | Up to 2 |
Values are typical. The exact limits depend on the standard and supplier; ask for the mill test certificate when it matters.
SS316 or SS316L?
| SS316 | SS316L | |
|---|---|---|
| Carbon | 0.08% max | 0.03% max |
| Welded parts | Risk of weld decay in some media | Keeps corrosion resistance at welds |
| Strength | Slightly higher | Slightly lower |
| Typical use | Machined parts, fasteners | Welded tanks, pipes, vessels |
Typical uses
- Pharma and food processing equipment
- Chemical tanks, pipes and fittings
- Marine hardware
- Heat exchangers and valves
- Medical and laboratory equipment
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Questions
- What is the difference between 316 and 316L?
- 316L has less carbon (0.03% max against 0.08%). That makes it better for welded parts, because it does not lose corrosion resistance next to the weld. Strength is slightly lower.
- Is 316L better than 304?
- For corrosion, yes: the molybdenum in 316L resists chlorides, salt water and many chemicals better. It costs more, so 304 is used where conditions are milder.
- Can 316L be hardened?
- Not by heat treatment. It gets harder only by cold working, such as rolling or drawing.
The figures on this page are typical values for guidance, written by Diemeco from standard engineering practice. They are not a specification: confirm grades and properties with the relevant standard or the supplier's mill test certificate, and tolerances with your workshop. Last checked 16 October 2026.