What is the difference between 316 and 316L stainless steel pipes?

The main difference is carbon content. 316L has a lower carbon level (max 0.03%) compared to 316 (max 0.08%), which makes 316L more suitable for welding applications as it reduces the risk of intergranular corrosion.

Is 316 stainless steel pipe suitable for marine applications?

Yes, 316 stainless steel pipe is highly suitable for marine environments due to its excellent resistance to saltwater corrosion and chloride-induced pitting.

Can 316L stainless steel pipe be used for high-temperature applications?

Yes, both 316 and 316L stainless steel pipes can withstand elevated temperatures and offer good resistance to oxidation and thermal stress. However, 316 is generally preferred for higher temperature limits due to its slightly higher carbon content.

Are 316L/316 stainless steel pipes available in seamless and welded forms?

Yes, these pipes are available in both seamless and welded types. Seamless pipes are preferred for high-pressure applications, while welded pipes are cost-effective and suitable for lower pressure systems.

What are the standard certifications provided with 316/316L pipes?

Reputable suppliers provide Material Test Reports (MTRs) and certificates such as EN 10204 3.1 or 3.2, ensuring compliance with international standards like ASTM A312, A213, and A269.

316 Stainless Steel Pipe | 316L Stainless Steel Pipe Supplier

316 Stainless Steel Pipe

Among the most widely used grades of stainless steel, 316 stainless steel pipe is exceptionally resistant to corrosion especially in settings high in chloride. Excellent for use in chemical processing, maritime, oil and gas, this austenitic stainless steel has outstanding formability, strength, and durability. Including molybdenum into its constitution reduces pitting and crevice corrosion. For use incorporating strong chemicals or salty surroundings, 316 stainless steel pipe provides continuous long-term performance.

What Is 316L Stainless Steel Pipe?

Designed particularly to reduce the risk of intergranular corrosion during welding, 316L stainless steel pipe is a low-carbon variation of 316 stainless steel. The lower carbon content qualifies better for uses requiring significant welding without sacrificing corrosion resistance. Molybdenum is present in 316L stainless steel pipe, same as in its 316 equivalent, which increases resistance to acidic and chloride surroundings. Where strength and corrosion resistance are vital, these qualities make it a preferred material for use in pressure tanks, pipework systems, and industrial equipment.

316 / 316L Stainless Steel Pipes

316 and 316L stainless steel pipes offer superior corrosion resistance, excellent strength, and weldability. Ideal for marine, chemical, and industrial use, these pipes ensure durability and performance in harsh environments. Available in seamless and welded.

316 / 316L Stainless Steel Tubes

316 and 316L stainless steel tubes provide outstanding corrosion resistance, high strength, and excellent weldability. Suitable for marine, pharmaceutical, and chemical industries, they ensure reliable performance in demanding environments.

316 Stainless Steel Pipe & 316L Stainless Steel Pipe Specifications

International standards guaranteeing performance and quality in 316 and 316L stainless steel pipes include ASTM A312, A213, A269, and A249. They are identified as UN S 31600 (316), S 31603 (316L), European EN 1.4401 and EN 1.4404. Additionally tracked for dimensional accuracy and structural consistency are DIN 17456 and DIN 17458. For a range of uses, these smooth, welded pipes with plain or beveled ends are offered in SCH 5 through SCH XXS.

Specification

Specifications

ASTM A312, A358 / ASME SA312, SA358

Dimensions

ASTM, ASME and API

Seamless Pipe Size

1/2″ NB – 16″NB

ERW Pipe Size

1/2″ NB – 24″ NB

EFW Pipe Size :

6″ NB – 100″ NB

Outside Diameter :

6.00 mm OD up to 914.4 mm OD, Sizes up to 24” NB available

Length

Single Random, Double Random & Required Length

Thickness

0.3mm – 50 mm

Schedule

SCH20, SCH30, SCH40, STD, SCH80, XS, SCH60, SCH120, SCH140, SCH160, XXS

Type

Seamless, Welded, ERW, EFW

Form

Round Pipes, Square Pipes, Rectangular Pipe

End

Plain End, Beveled End, Treaded

Stainless Steel 316/316L Pipes Equivalent Grades

STANDARD	WERKSTOFF NR.	UNS	JIS	BS	GOST	AFNOR	EN
SS 316	1.4401 / 1.4436	S31600	SUS 316	316S31 / 316S33	-	Z7CND17‐11‐02	X5CrNiMo17-12-2 / X3CrNiMo17-13-3
SS 316L	1.4404 / 1.4435	S31603	SUS 316L	316S11 / 316S13	03Ch17N14M3 / 03Ch17N14M2	Z3CND17‐11‐02 / Z3CND18‐14‐03	X2CrNiMo17-12-2 / X2CrNiMo18-14-3

Chemical Composition of 316L and 316 Stainless Steel Pipes

316 and 316L stainless steel pipes are identical even if their chemical compositions differ. Strength and resistance against corrosion rise with 16–18% chromium, 10–14% nickel, and 2–3% molybdenum. 316L boasts 0.03% carbon to stop welding carbide precipitation. 316 has the highest carbon content—0.08%. Chemical properties let materials withstand demanding industrial, marine, and chemical treatment.

Element	SS 316	SS 316L
C	0.08 max	0.035 max
Mn	2.0 max	2.0 max
Si	1.0 max	1.0 max
P	0.045 max	0.045 max
S	0.030 max	0.030 max
Cr	16.00 - 18.00	16.00 - 18.00
Mo	2.00 - 3.00	2.00 - 3.00
Ni	11.00 - 14.00	10.00 - 14.00
Fe	67.845 min	68.89 min

Properties of 316 and 316L Stainless Steel Pipe

In situations with acidity and salt, 316 and 316L stainless steel pipes hold good resistance against corrosion. Their mechanical durability and tensile strength help them to manage high temperatures and stress. Enhanced 316L weld sensitivity resistance. These grades resist pitting and crevice corrosion for long-term performance in demanding conditions. They are appropriate for low-permeability use as, annealed, they are non-magnetic.

Element	SS 316	SS 316L
Density	8.0 g/cm3	8.0 g/cm3
Melting Point	1400 °C (2550 °F)	1399 °C (2550 °F)
Tensile Strength	Psi – 75000 , MPa – 515	Psi – 75000 , MPa – 515
Yield Strength (0.2%Offset)	Psi – 30000 , MPa – 205	Psi – 30000 , MPa – 205
Elongation	35 %	35 %

Applications of 316 & 316L Stainless Steel Pipes

Chemical Industry – Ideal for transporting acids, chemicals, and solvents.
Marine Environments – Used in seawater systems, shipbuilding, and offshore platforms.
Food & Beverage – Perfect for sanitary piping and processing lines.
Pharmaceuticals – Suitable for cleanroom piping and sterile applications.
Architecture & Construction – Used in handrails, structural supports, and façades.
Power Plants – Handles high-pressure steam and hot water lines efficiently.

Where to Buy 316L & 316 Stainless Steel Pipe?

Solitaire Overseas is a reputable worldwide provider and exporter if you search for dependable 316 and 316L stainless steel tubing. They supply tailored sizes, finishes, and lengths to fit particular industrial needs as well as pipes that follow international standards. Every product is meticulously wrapped for worldwide delivery and carries required certifications like EN 10204 3.1/3.2. Strong reputation for quality and fast delivery helps Solitaire Overseas to guarantee customers get durable, corrosion-resistant stainless steel pipes for important uses.