Both resist sensitisation — 316L by keeping carbon below 0.030%, 316Ti by binding carbon with titanium. 316L is preferred for polished and pharmaceutical service; 316Ti is common in European high-temperature specifications.

Grades · Stainless Steel · 316L

316L

Data verified

316L is the low-carbon version of 316 and the most specified molybdenum-bearing stainless for welded equipment. It combines chloride pitting resistance with freedom from weld sensitisation.

Hardness≤217 HB (annealed)

DIN1.4404

AISI316L

JISSUS316L

CategoryStainless Steel

Chemical composition

Element	Content (%)
C	≤0.030
Si	≤0.75
Mn	≤2.00
P	≤0.045
S	≤0.030
Cr	16.00–18.00
Ni	10.00–14.00
Mo	2.00–3.00
N	≤0.10

Weight percent, per the governing standard ranges. Actual values per heat are on the mill certificate.

Properties

Delivery condition	Annealed
Hardness	≤217 HB (annealed)
Tensile strength	485–690 MPa
Yield strength	≥170 MPa
Density	7.90 g/cm³

Heat treatment

Solution anneal 1010–1120 °C, rapid cool; no post-weld anneal needed in normal service.

Equivalent grades

Standard	Designation
din	1.4404
aisi	316L
jis	SUS316L
gb	022Cr17Ni12Mo2

Compare side by side: 316L vs 316 · 316L vs 316Ti · 316L vs 317L

Equivalents overlap in chemistry and use but are not always identical — see our equivalents guide before substituting in certified designs.

Applications & Processing

Applications: Pharmaceutical and food vessels, marine fittings, chemical tankers and piping, surgical implants (special melts), watch cases.

Processing: Excellent weldability; machining slightly gummier than 304; widely stocked as sheet, plate, bar and tube in dual-certified 316/316L form.

FAQ

316L vs 316Ti?: Both resist sensitisation — 316L by keeping carbon below 0.030%, 316Ti by binding carbon with titanium. 316L is preferred for polished and pharmaceutical service; 316Ti is common in European high-temperature specifications.

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Source: ASTM A240 / EN 10088 published ranges · Last updated 2026-11-03. Data is indicative — verify critical values against the governing standard and mill certificate before use.