On this page 8 sections
What is the difference between SS 316 and SS 316L?
Short answer
The only difference is carbon: SS 316 allows up to 0.08% and SS 316L up to 0.030%. The lower carbon stops chromium carbides forming during welding, so SS 316L keeps its corrosion resistance in weld zones. Strength is slightly lower on paper, and most material is supplied dual-certified SS 316/316L.
SS 316 vs SS 316L at a glance
| Property | SS 316 | SS 316L |
|---|---|---|
| UNS | S31600 | S31603 |
| EN | 1.4401 | 1.4404 |
| Family | Austenitic stainless steel | Austenitic stainless steel |
| C (%) | 0.08 max | 0.030 max |
| Cr (%) | 16.0 – 18.0 | 16.0 – 18.0 |
| Ni (%) | 10.0 – 14.0 | 10.0 – 14.0 |
| Mo (%) | 2.00 – 3.00 | 2.00 – 3.00 |
| N (%) | 0.10 max | 0.10 max |
| Tensile strength | 515 MPa (75 ksi) | 485 MPa (70 ksi) |
| Yield strength | 205 MPa (30 ksi) | 170 MPa (25 ksi) |
| PREN | 23 – 25 | 23 – 25 |
| Density | 8 g/cm³ | 8 g/cm³ |
| Magnetic | Essentially non-magnetic when annealed; cold work can make it slightly magnetic. | Essentially non-magnetic when annealed; cold work can make it slightly magnetic. |
| Typical use | Chemical and petrochemical process equipment | Chemical and fertiliser process piping |
Which should you choose?
There's no universal "winner": the right choice depends on service conditions, codes and cost. Share your conditions with us for a recommendation.
Where buyers go wrong
Verifying low carbon
Handheld XRF cannot measure carbon, so it cannot tell SS 316 from SS 316L. Use OES spark testing or rely on the certificate. See XRF vs OES.
Products in both grades
Related guides, comparisons and articles
Frequently asked questions
Can SS 316L be used at high temperature?
For creep-range pressure parts, SS 316H (higher carbon) is specified instead. SS 316L is limited in some codes above about 425 °C.
Is SS 316L more expensive than SS 316?
The price is essentially the same, because most mills melt to dual-certified chemistry.
What is the main difference between SS 316 and SS 316L?
SS 316L limits carbon to 0.030% (SS 316: 0.08%) to avoid sensitisation in welds. Corrosion resistance is otherwise equal, and dual-certified SS 316/316L is standard.
When should I choose SS 316?
Fasteners (B8M), bar and non-welded parts.
When should I choose SS 316L?
Welded piping, vessels and pharma/food equipment.
Can SS 316 replace SS 316L?
Only when the design, code and specification allow it. Strength, corrosion resistance and temperature limits differ, so substitution must be approved by the design authority.
Which has better pitting resistance, SS 316 or SS 316L?
Typical PREN: SS 316 23 – 25, SS 316L 23 – 25. A higher PREN generally means better chloride pitting resistance.