Stainless steel is one of the most commonly used materials in industries that demand high performance, hygiene, and corrosion resistance. Two of the most widely used grades are 304 stainless steel and 316 stainless steel. While they may look similar at first glance, these two types have critical differences that affect their performance and suitability for various applications.
In this blog, we’ll explore what sets these two stainless steel grades apart and help you make the best choice for your application.
304 stainless steel is the most common type of stainless steel, also known as 18/8 stainless due to its composition of 18% chromium and 8% nickel. It offers excellent corrosion resistance, good formability, and a wide range of applications. It is non-magnetic in the annealed condition and becomes slightly magnetic when cold worked.
304 stainless steel is often used in:
Food processing equipment
Kitchen appliances
Piping systems
Architectural applications
Its affordability and versatility make it a go-to material in industries where general corrosion resistance is sufficient.
316 stainless steel is similar to 304 but contains an additional element — molybdenum, typically around 2-3%. This addition significantly improves its resistance to chlorides and other corrosive agents, making it ideal for harsher environments such as marine and chemical processing settings.
316 stainless steel is commonly used in:
Marine equipment
Pharmaceutical and chemical processing
Sanitary fittings
Medical devices
While more expensive, 316 offers superior performance in environments where corrosion is a serious concern.
3.1 Chemical Composition
304 Stainless Steel: ~18% chromium, ~8% nickel
316 Stainless Steel: ~16% chromium, ~10% nickel, and 2-3% molybdenum
The presence of molybdenum in 316 enhances its resistance to chlorides and acidic conditions.
3.2 Corrosion Resistance
316 stainless steel clearly outperforms 304 when it comes to corrosion resistance, especially in environments exposed to saltwater, chemicals, or brine. For applications in coastal or chemical-heavy settings, 316 is the better option.
3.3 Durability and Strength
Both 304 and 316 offer excellent strength and durability, but 316 is generally stronger due to its chemical makeup. It also performs better at higher temperatures and under heavy loads.
3.4 Common Applications
304 Stainless Steel: More commonly found in indoor environments or where exposure to harsh chemicals is minimal.
316 Stainless Steel: Used where high corrosion resistance is essential — such as marine, pharmaceutical, or food-grade industries.
3.5 Availability
304 stainless steel is more widely available and easier to source in many forms and sizes. Because it is the standard “go-to” stainless steel, it’s generally easier to find and quicker to procure for manufacturers.
3.6 Cost
Due to the addition of molybdenum, 316 stainless steel is more expensive than 304 — typically by 20% to 30%. However, the investment can be justified in applications where increased longevity and resistance to corrosion are necessary.
When choosing between 304 stainless steel and 316 stainless steel, the decision ultimately depends on the operating environment and the level of corrosion resistance required. For general-purpose indoor applications, 304 is a cost-effective and durable choice. For harsher environments, especially those with salt exposure or corrosive chemicals, 316 is the preferred material.
At EFUN Valve, we manufacture high-quality sanitary valves and fittings using both 304 and 316 stainless steel. Whether you need components for food processing, pharmaceutical systems, or sanitary pipelines, our products deliver superior performance, hygiene, and durability. Explore our range of stainless steel solutions and ensure the safety and efficiency of your fluid systems with EFUN Valve.
