Stainless Steel 316 (SS 316) Sheet is a popular grade of stainless steel that has a range of applications in numerous industries. It is widely known for its outstanding corrosion resistance and excellent mechanical properties. In this blog post, we will discuss everything you need to know about the SS 316 sheet, from its chemical composition, properties, and applications to its manufacturing process and standards.
What Is Ss 316 Sheet?
SS 316 Sheet is a stainless steel alloy with 18% chromium and 8% nickel. It is also known as Grade 316 or A4-70 stainless steel, providing high strength and excellent corrosion resistance even in extreme temperatures. Due to its durability, this type of sheet is often used for industrial applications such as chemical delivery systems, exhaust systems, and heat exchangers. Additionally, it can be used in salt-water applications due to its better-than-average resistance to chloride ion stress corrosion cracking (SCC). For these reasons, the SS 316 Sheet is an ideal choice for many projects that require a durable material with superior strength.
Chemical Composition
SS 316 Sheet is an alloy made of iron, carbon, chromium, nickel, and molybdenum. The addition of molybdenum makes 316 stainless steel more resistant to pitting and crevice corrosion in chloride environments. The percentage of key chemical elements in the SS 316 sheet is as follows – Chromium – 16-18%, Nickel – 10-14%, Molybdenum – 2-3%, Carbon – 0.08%, Iron – 68%.
Properties
SS 316 sheet has a high degree of Machinability and formability. The tensile strength of the SS 316 sheet is approximately 515 MPa, and the yield strength is approximately 205 MPa. It has excellent corrosion resistance properties and can resist the corrosive effects of a broad range of chemicals, including seawater, acid, and alkali solutions. The material also exhibits excellent toughness, high ductility, and creep resistance.
Applications
SS 316 sheet is widely used in various industries, such as pharmaceuticals, food processing, oil and gas, chemical process equipment, and marine structures. The material is used to make equipment for food processing, surgical instruments, and implants. SS 316 sheet is also used in the manufacture of heat exchangers, pressure vessels, piping, and tanks in chemical production plants, oil refineries, and other industrial processes. In addition, the SS 316 sheet is used in architecture and construction for exterior cladding, roofing, and handrails.
Manufacturing Process And Standards
SS 316 Sheet is made through a process called hot rolling. In this process, the material is heated until it is easily moldable, and then it is rolled into the desired thickness by passing through a series of rollers. SS 316 sheet is also available in cold-rolled form, which gives it a better surface finish, higher strength, and more dimensional accuracy. The main manufacturing standards for the SS 316 sheet include ASTM A240, ASME SA240, and JIS G4304.
Conclusion
SS 316 sheet is a versatile material that exhibits excellent corrosion resistance, high tensile strength, and excellent ductility. With its wide range of applications, it is a popular choice for various industries. Whether you need an SS 316 sheet for food processing, chemical processing, or construction, you can count on it to deliver reliable and long-lasting performance. So if you’re looking for a material that can withstand harsh environments, the SS 316 sheet is an excellent choice.
