5 Key Differences Between SS 304 and SS 316 Fasteners

SS 304 and SS 316 are commonly used grades for stainless steel fasteners in industrial applications. They may look similar, but some differences affect performance. These differences include corrosion resistance, durability, and temperature thresholds.

To choose the right grade for your project, it's important to understand the differences in chemical composition and manufacturing methods. This will help you find the best fit for your needs and operating conditions.

We will look at the five main differences between SS 304 and SS 316 fasteners manufacturers in India stainless steels. These differences are important for critical fastener applications. Engineers and procurement teams can use this information to make informed decisions prioritizing safety and equipment longevity.

1. Composition

The difference between SS 304 fasteners manufacturers in India and SS 316 fasteners is mainly in their composition. Made of a steel alloy containing 18 % of chromium and 8 % of nickel, the SS 304 fasteners have high strength and excellent resistance against corrosion. This combination is ideal for many environments. In contrast, SS 316 screws have one more ingredient- molybdenum. Adding 2-3 % of this is one major reason they are much more resistant to corrosion, especially by chlorides and acidic materials.

2. Corrosion Resistance

SS 304 and SS 316L Flanges are both highly corrosion-resistant. However, SS 316 is better for challenging environments. Molybdenum in SS 316 fasteners helps resist corrosion in marine and chloride-exposed areas. SS 304 fasteners resist oxidation and corrosion. However, they may not hold up well in saltwater and certain chemicals over time.

3. Cost and Availability Factors

Industrial buyers comparing SS 304 and 316 should consider pricing and lead time differences due to global supply chain demands in recent years.

Top SS Threaded flange manufacturers in India, like Regal Sales Corporation, have made accommodating infrastructure investments in the last decade. They can help to increase their production capacities for SS 316 parts. As a result, the availability of raw materials for 316 grade has improved significantly. However, it still lags behind the dominant inventory streams of 304 grade, which makes the latter slightly more affordable in ad hoc situations. Project managers should compare the lifespan of equipment and the upfront unit price. This helps minimize expenses at first, but there is a risk of higher replacement costs later. This is especially true when selecting 304 less resilient metal components.

4. Application Suitability

SS 304 fasteners are commonly used in environments where corrosion is a problem, but often not when there is high exposure to salts or acids. They suit kitchen appliances, outdoor environments, and general industrial applications. On the other hand, SS 316 fasteners manufacturers in India are chosen where the conditions are harsher, as in marine, pharmaceutical or chemical processing environments.

5. Machining Characteristics to Note

304 generally machine cuts, drills, and finishes easier than 316. This means manufacturers have fewer tooling hassles when working with 304. CNC precision enhancements have reduced variables in the past decade. Teams at Regal Sales Corp optimize programs for stainless machinery. This minimizes efficiency differences between metals for fabricators. Metallurgists say 316 is slightly more prone to clogging drilling and cutting bits than 304. Builders should know this when comparing supplier turnaround estimates for getting parts out the door.

Contact Regal Sales Corporation, the leading stainless steel fasteners manufacturers in India. They can help you to get information on choosing the right grades for your project.