SS 316 vs SS 316L
SS 316 (UNS S31600) vs SS 316L (UNS S31603): chemical composition and mechanical properties side by side.
- Strength: SS 316L minimum yield is 170 MPa vs 205 MPa for SS 316 (-17%); tensile 485 vs 515 MPa.
- Density: 7.98 vs 7.98 g/cm³ — same weight for the same dimensions.
- Pitting resistance (PREN, min): 22.6 vs 22.6 — equal.
- Typical use: SS 316 — Mo-bearing, better pitting resistance. SS 316L — Most specified process stainless.
| Property | SS 316 | SS 316L |
|---|---|---|
| Family | Austenitic stainless | Austenitic stainless |
| UNS | S31600 | S31603 |
| EN / W.Nr | 1.4401 X5CrNiMo17-12-2 | 1.4404 X2CrNiMo17-12-2 |
| Basis spec | ASTM A240 | ASTM A240 |
| Density g/cm³ | 7.98 | 7.98 |
| Chemical composition, % | ||
| C | 0.08 | 0.030 |
| Mn | 2.00 | 2.00 |
| P | 0.045 | 0.045 |
| S | 0.030 | 0.030 |
| Si | 0.75 | 0.75 |
| Cr | 16.0–18.0 | 16.0–18.0 |
| Ni | 10.0–14.0 | 10.0–14.0 |
| Mo | 2.00–3.00 | 2.00–3.00 |
| N | 0.10 | 0.10 |
| Mechanical properties (min) | ||
| Tensile strength | 515 MPa (75 ksi) | 485 MPa (70 ksi) |
| Yield strength (0.2%) | 205 MPa (30 ksi) | 170 MPa (25 ksi) |
| Elongation | 40% | 40% |
| Hardness (max) | 217 HB | 217 HB |
| PREN (min, from spec) | 22.6 | 22.6 |
Single values are maximums; ranges are min–max; "bal" = balance. Limits are typical of the basis specification for that product form — forgings, pipe and fittings specifications differ slightly. Always check the exact specification, edition and the mill test certificate.
Frequently asked questions
What is the difference between SS 316 and SS 316L?
Strength: SS 316L minimum yield is 170 MPa vs 205 MPa for SS 316 (-17%); tensile 485 vs 515 MPa. Density: 7.98 vs 7.98 g/cm³ — same weight for the same dimensions. Pitting resistance (PREN, min): 22.6 vs 22.6 — equal.
Which is stronger, SS 316 or SS 316L?
SS 316 has the higher minimum yield strength (205 MPa vs 170 MPa).
Last updated 2026-11-02