316 stainless steel has a high resistance to many chemical corrodents and marine atmospheres. 316 stainless steels are more resistant to general corrosion and pitting/crevices than conventional austenitic stainless steels. 316/316L stainless steels also offer higher creep, stress-to-rupture and tensile strength at elevated temperatures. 316 are also well suited for fabricated or formed applications. This alloy is recommended for welding because it has a carbon content lower than 316 to avoid carbide precipitation in welding applications. The addition of molybdenum and a slightly higher nickel content make 316 Stainless Steel suitable for architectural applications in severe settings, from polluted marine environments to areas with sub-zero temperatures. Equipment in the chemical, food, paper, mining, pharmaceutical and petroleum industries often includes 316 Stainless Steel.
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