Difference between 304 & 316L Stainless Steel
There are a number of similarities and differences between 304 and 316L stainless steel, but both types of steel have practical applications.
Components
The “300” series contains different types of stainless steel; however, all types of stainless steel in the series contain about the same amount of nickel, iron and chromium. 316L stainless steel is simply a low-carbon type of 316 stainless steel that contains molybdenum.
Corrosion Resistance
316L stainless steel contains molybdenum, which gives it increased corrosion resistance, more so than the corrosion resistance provided by stainless steel 304. In chlorine environments, 316L stainless steel offers a higher resistance to crevice corrosion and pitting than stainless steel 304.
Applications
316L stainless steel is often employed in heavy gauge welding applications because the risk of pitting, cracking and corrosion is reduced. Stainless steel 304 is often used in the creation of cookware and in the construction of dairy equipment, such as milking machines.
