Stainless steel is widely used in various industries such as construction, architecture, medicine, automotive, etc. But not all stainless steel types are created equal, so it’s essential to understand their differences. Two popular stainless steel types are 347 and 316. This blog post will discuss the differences between these stainless steel types and their particular applications.
Difference Between Stainless Steel 347 and 316
Chemical Composition:
Stainless Steel 316 contains 16-18% chromium, 10-14% nickel, 2-3% molybdenum, and <2% manganese, silicon, carbon, and phosphorus. At the same time, 347 Stainless Steel contains 17-19% chromium, 9-13% nickel, <1% manganese, 1-2% silicon, 0.3% carbon, and 9-12.5% of niobium/columbium. Niobium is an element used to stabilize steel, reducing intergranular corrosion risk.
Corrosion Resistance:
Both the stainless steel types are highly resistant to corrosion. However, 347 stainless steel has higher resistance to intergranular corrosion due to the presence of niobium in its chemical composition. So, you’re looking for better resistance to environments with a high heat range, such as chemical plants, high-temperature auto exhausts, or high-temperature air applications. In that case, 347 stainless steel is an excellent choice.
Weldability Properties:
Both stainless steel types have excellent weldability properties. However, 347 stainless steel is soft and easy to work with. It doesn’t harden quickly during welding, making it ideal for welding parts with thicker sections.
Temperature Resistance:
Stainless steel 316 is best for applications exposed to less extreme temperatures. On the other hand, 347 Stainless Steel has better high-temperature strength, which makes it an ideal option for use in condensers, boiler tubes, and superheaters.
Applications:
316 Stainless steel is best suited for applications that require resistance to corrosion and staining, including food processing, medical devices, and architectural applications. Meanwhile, 347 Stainless Steel is suitable for demanding applications requiring high strength and corrosion resistance, such as chemical processing, aerospace, and power generation.
Conclusion:
Stainless Steel 347 and 316 have differences that make them more suitable for specific applications. If you need higher strength and better resistance to intergranular corrosion, 347 stainless steel should be your go-to option. However, if you need resistance to staining and corrosion and lower strength is required, you should consider 316 Stainless Steel. Always consider the specific characteristics of your application before deciding which type of stainless steel meets your needs.
