EDELSTAHL SCHNEIDTECHNIK RHEIN-RUHR

Alloy 1.4435 / 316L

Highly alloyed austenitic stainless steel with excellent corrosion resistance and good mechanical properties

1.4435, also known as 316L or X2CrNiMo17-12-2, is a highly alloyed austenitic stainless steel. It is known for its excellent corrosion resistance and good mechanical properties, making it suitable for demanding applications. The high content of nickel, chromium, and molybdenum provides superior resistance in aggressive environments.

Chemical Composition (in %):

Element

Content

Chromium (Cr)

16,0 – 18,0 %

Nickel (Ni)

10,0 – 13,0 %

Molybdenum (Mo)

2,5 – 3,0 %

Nitrogen (N)

bis 0,1 %

Iron (Fe)

Balance

Carbon (C)

max. 0,03 %

Manganese (Mn)

bis 2,0 %

Silicon (Si)

bis 1,0 %

Phosphorus (P)

max. 0,035 %

Sulfur (S)

 0,015 %

Properties:

Corrosion resistance:

  • Excellent resistance to pitting and crevice corrosion, especially in chloride-containing environments (e.g., seawater)
  • High resistance to intergranular corrosion due to low carbon and nitrogen additions
  • Very good resistance to oxidizing acids such as nitric and sulfuric acid


Mechanical properties:

  • Tensile strength: approx. 520–700 MPa
  • Yield strength: approx. 210–250 MPa
  • Elongation: approx. 40–50 %

Good toughness and ductility under industrial conditions

Heat resistance:

  • Usable up to 850 °C in oxidizing atmospheres
  • Retains mechanical strength and corrosion resistance under elevated temperatures


Weldability:

  • Good weldability without risk of intergranular corrosion due to low carbon content
  • Proper welding procedures and filler materials are recommended for highly corrosive environments
  • Stress corrosion cracking resistance:
  • High resistance to SCC, particularly in chloride-rich solutions

Applications:

  • Chemical industry:
    Pipelines, reactors, valves, and pumps in contact with acids and chlorides
  • Pharmaceutical industry:
    Equipment for production under high purity and resistance requirements
  • Marine industry:
    Components exposed to seawater such as ships, offshore platforms, and marine structures
  • Aerospace:
    High-temperature components and acid-resistant parts in engines or exhausts
  • Water treatment:
    Desalination plants and water treatment systems with chloride exposure
  • Food industry:
    Cooking equipment, heat exchangers, and storage tanks where hygiene and corrosion resistance are crucial

Conclusion:

1.4435 (316L) is a highly alloyed austenitic stainless steel, combining excellent corrosion resistance with good mechanical properties and heat resistance up to 850 °C. Its ability to withstand aggressive media, pitting, and intergranular corrosion makes it ideal for the chemical, marine, and pharmaceutical industries, as well as for food processing and water treatment applications.

Note: The information in this datasheet is provided for description purposes only; no liability is assumed!