SS 316 / 316L Plates — ASTM A240

What is an SS 316 / 316L Plate?

Type 316 adds 2–3% molybdenum to the 18-8 austenitic base, which improves resistance to pitting and crevice corrosion in chloride-containing environments and to many process chemicals. 316L limits carbon to 0.030% for welded construction without post-weld solution annealing; dual-certified 316/316L is common. It is used for chemical and pharmaceutical vessels, marine and coastal equipment, pulp and paper plant, and food processing with brines. Variants such as 316Ti and 316H are supplied against order.

Key features

• Stockist and supplier — sourced from stainless mills; Teshi does not manufacture plate
• ASTM A240 / ASME SA-240 Type 316 and 316L
• Dual-certified 316/316L available
• Plate, sheet and coil; No.1, 2B, BA and No. 4 finishes
• 316Ti and 316H against order
• Can be ordered together with flanges, fittings and fabrications manufactured by Teshi

Specification

Applications

• Chemical and pharmaceutical vessels
• Marine and coastal equipment
• Pulp and paper plant
• Food processing with brines
• Heat exchangers and scrubbers

316L vs 304L plate

Both are low-carbon austenitic grades with the same minimum strength under ASTM A240. The difference is molybdenum: 316L contains 2.00–3.00% Mo and more nickel, which raises resistance to pitting and crevice corrosion in chlorides and to many acids. 304L is the economical choice for fresh water, atmospheric and mildly corrosive service. Where chlorides, brines or coastal exposure are present, 316L is normally specified.