SS 304 vs SS 316 Stainless Steel: Complete Guide

Introduction

Stainless steel is one of the most essential engineering and construction materials, valued for its corrosion resistance, strength, durability, and aesthetic appeal. Among the wide variety of stainless steel grades, SS 304 and SS 316 are the most commonly used.

Although they look similar and even share many mechanical properties, they are not identical. The key difference is the addition of Molybdenum (Mo) in SS 316, which makes it more resistant to chloride-induced corrosion, making it the preferred choice for marine and chemical environments.

This guide provides an in-depth comparison of SS 304 vs SS 316, covering their composition, properties, uses, advantages, disadvantages, and cost considerations