What is the difference between 316 stainless steel and 304 stainless steel

First of all, 316 stainless steel contains Mo, and has better corrosion resistance than 304 stainless steel in high temperature environment. So in high temperature environment, engineers will generally choose 316 stainless steel.

Second, there are differences between the two grades; 304 stainless steel corresponds to Chinese brand 0Cr18Ni9; 316 stainless steel corresponds to Chinese brand 0Cr17Ni12Mo2.

Third, 316 stainless steel mainly reduce Cr content, increase Ni content and increase Mo 2%~3%. Therefore, its corrosion resistance is stronger than 304 stainless steel. 316 stainless steel is more suitable for use in chemical, seawater and other environments. Meanwhile, the price of 316 stainless steel is higher than 304 stainless steel, generally 316 stainless steel is used for higher requirements.

In fact, the naked eye can not see the difference between 304 stainless steel and 316 stainless steel. There is a more intuitive method of identification, that is to use stainless steel liquid medicine to identify.