THE RAW MATERIAL DATA OF PROTOTYPE STAMPING

Type 316 stainless steel is austenitic steel that differs from grade 304 through the addition of molybdenum, which increases its resistance to chemical corrosion and marine environments. These materials excel in harsher atmospheres, where pitting and crevice corrosion can occur through chloride exposure or solvents used in processing.

316L stainless steel is an extra-low carbon version of 316 SS, and while both grades are very similar, 316 "L" is ideal for heavy gauge welding applications, as it is less susceptible to weld decay. The low carbon content decreases carbide precipitation that sensitizes the grain boundaries of welds in these materials. The austenitic structure of 316L provides excellent toughness even at cryogenic temperatures.

Both grade 316 and 316L steels offer high creep strength, stress-to-rupture and tensile strength at high temperatures, as well as excellent corrosion resistance and strength properties. These grades are well suited for sheet metal prototyping fabrication or formed applications like refining equipment, surgical tools, fasteners, pulp and paper processing equipment, and pharmaceutical processing.

Annealing, or heat treating, can be done between 1,900 – 2,100°F (1,038 to 1,149°C), and is commonly used to restore corrosion resistance in heavily welded 316 steel materials.