Everything You Need to Know: 316L Stainless Steel

Did you know that low carbon steel alloys have a carbon content from 0.01% up to 0.3%? these alloys are used to make different types of objects and metal components such as fasteners, bolts, medical tools, shafts, spindles, and more.

One of the most popular types of low carbon steel is the 316l stainless steel alloy. This metal contains up to 0.03% carbon and it can be very easy to work with. You should not confuse the 316l alloy with the plain 316 stainless steel because there are important differences between them. Keep reading to find out more!

316l Stainless Steel 101 – Everything You Need To Know

One of the main differences between 316l stainless steel and 316 stainless steel is that the former contains up to 0.03% carbon and the later contains up to 0.08% carbon. These differences give them various properties. Let’s learn more about 316l stainless steel alloy.

1. 316l Is More Suitable for High-Corrosion Use

The 316l stainless steel alloy is used in various applications because it’s great at avoiding weld corrosion. It can also withstand high temperatures and it has a high melting point at around 2,500 degrees Fahrenheit or about 1,370 degrees Celsius. Apart from carbon, this alloy also contains up to 2% manganese and up to 0.75% silicon.

2. 316l Is Used In Multiple Applications and Industries

Unlike other types of steels such as 304 and 306, the 316l stainless steel alloy can be found in various applications where high resistance to corrosion is necessary. For example, experts use it in the chemical and pharmaceutical industry for making surgical tools and medical implants.

This alloy can also be used for making textile tubing as well as equipment for the petroleum refining industry. 316l steel has high formability which means that it can be bent and cut in various ways without damaging it. As a result, it’s also used for ductworks, for making ozone generators or sewage water filters.

3. 316l Comes In Various Shapes

Thanks to the fact that this alloy is easy to work with and can’t be easily damaged, companies bend it in various shapes and forms. For example, 316l stainless steel comes as ribbons, wires, sheets, strips, and other shapes. Each industry manipulates this metal with great success to create various finished products.

4. Understanding the Differences Between 316l and 316 Stainless Steel

Although both of these steels are considered to be low carbon steel alloys, they are quite different. For example, the “L” stands for “low” in 316l stainless steel and signifies that this alloy has a very low carbon content. The 316l variant is also more resistant to weld decay in comparison with 316 and it can withstand higher temperatures. That’s why 316l is used often in marine and construction projects.

Take Your Steel Knowledge to The Next Level

The 316l stainless steel alloy is a staple in today’s metallurgy industry and it can be tailored to accommodate the needs of your business. Make sure that you contact us today to learn more about steel fabrication and how our supplies of 316l stainless steel can benefit your company!