Why specify 316LN instead of 316L?

Nitrogen gives higher allowable stresses (thinner walls for the same duty), better pitting resistance and excellent low-temperature toughness — which is why pressure-vessel and cryogenic codes favour it.

Grades · Stainless Steel · 316LN

316LN

Data verified

316LN is 316L chemistry reinforced with 0.10–0.16% nitrogen. The nitrogen raises yield strength by roughly a quarter over 316L, improves pitting resistance, and keeps the steel fully austenitic and weldable with very low carbon.

Hardness≤217 HB (annealed)

DIN1.4429

AISI316LN (UNS S31653)

JISSUS316LN

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	10.00–13.00
Mo	2.00–3.00
N	0.10–0.16

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

Properties

Delivery condition	Solution annealed
Hardness	≤217 HB (annealed)
Tensile strength	≥515 MPa
Yield strength	≥205 MPa
Density	8.00 g/cm³

Heat treatment

Solution anneal 1040–1120 °C, rapid cool. Nitrogen is the strengthening element — no precipitation hardening is involved.

Equivalent grades

Standard	Designation
din	1.4429
aisi	316LN (UNS S31653)
jis	SUS316LN

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

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

Applications & Processing

Applications: Cryogenic and LNG equipment, chemical vessels built to higher design stresses, pharmaceutical plant, nuclear and fusion (ITER-type) structures.

Processing: As 316L, with somewhat higher forming forces from the nitrogen strength. Weld fillers are matched (316L or 316LN-type) per code case.

FAQ

Why specify 316LN instead of 316L?: Nitrogen gives higher allowable stresses (thinner walls for the same duty), better pitting resistance and excellent low-temperature toughness — which is why pressure-vessel and cryogenic codes favour it.

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Source: ASTM A240 published ranges (UNS S31653) · Last updated 2026-11-03. Data is indicative — verify critical values against the governing standard and mill certificate before use.