GRADE 304/304L

The most widely used of the austenitic grades, 304 offers good corrosion resistance to many chemicals and industrial atmospheres. Generally considered non-magnetic, it can become slightly magnetic when cold-worked. 304 is non-hardenable by heat treatment. In 304L, the carbon content has been lowered to .03% max. for corrosion resistance at heat affected zones from welding.

GRADE 316/316L

316 is an austenitic chrome nickel steel with superior corrosion resistance to that of other chrome nickel steels. Widely used when exposed to chemical corrodents, as well as marine atmospheres. 316 is generally considered non-magnetic, but can become magnetic when cold worked. In 316L, the carbon content has been lowered to .03% max. for corrosion resistance at heat affected zones from welding.