Seamless Austenitic Steel 316L Pipe, known by various designations such as UNS S31603, EN 1.4404, and X2CrNiMo17-12-2, is a low-carbon variant of the 316 stainless steel family. This austenitic stainless steel grade is celebrated for its exceptional resistance to a wide range of corrosive environments, particularly those involving chloride ions.
Manufactured to meet rigorous international standards including ASTM A312, ASTM A213, and GOST, this pipe undergoes a seamless production process, eliminating weld lines to ensure uniform strength and integrity. The low carbon content (≤0.035%) of TP316L significantly reduces the risk of carbide precipitation during welding, making it an ideal choice for applications where post-weld corrosion resistance is critical.
Zhejiang Xintongda Special Steel Manufacturing Co., Ltd. takes pride in producing TP316L seamless pipes that combine superior material properties with precise dimensional accuracy, catering to diverse industrial needs worldwide.
Grade | C | Mn | Si | P | S | Cr | Mo | Ni | Other |
316 | ≤0.08 | ≤2.00 | ≤1.00 | ≤0.045 | ≤0.03 | 16.00-18.00 | 2.00-3.00 | 10.00-14.00 | – |
316L | ≤0.035 | ≤2.00 | ≤1.00 | ≤0.045 | ≤0.03 | 16.00-18.00 | 2.00-3.00 | 10.00-14.00 | – |
316H | 0.04-0.10 | ≤2.00 | ≤1.00 | ≤0.045 | ≤0.03 | 16.00-18.00 | 2.00-3.00 | 10.00-14.00 | – |
316Ti | ≤0.08 | ≤2.00 | ≤0.75 | ≤0.045 | ≤0.03 | 16.00-18.00 | 2.00-3.00 | 10.00-14.00 | Ti: 5×(C+N)- 0.70; N: <0.10 |
316N | ≤0.08 | ≤2.00 | ≤1.00 | ≤0.045 | ≤0.03 | 16.00-18.00 | 2.00-3.00 | 10.00-14.00 | N 0.10-0.16 |
316LN | ≤0.035 | ≤2.00 | ≤1.00 | ≤0.045 | ≤0.03 | 16.00-18.00 | 2.00-3.00 | 10.00-14.00 | N 0.10-0.16 |
| Grade | Tensile Strength (MPa) min | Yield Strength 0.2% Proof (MPa) min | Elongation (% in 50 mm) min | Hardness (HRB max) | Hardness (HB max) |
| 316L | 485 | 170 | 40 | 95 | 217 |
| Property | Value |
| Density | 8000 kg/m³ |
| Elastic Modulus | 193 GPa |
| Thermal Expansion Coefficient (0-100°C) | 15.9 µm/m/°C |
| Thermal Conductivity (100°C) | 16.3 W/m·K |
| Specific Heat (0-100°C) | 500 J/kg·K |
| Electrical Resistivity | 740 nΩ·m |
Outer Diameter Range: 6-1016 mm
Wall Thickness Range: 1-65 mm
Custom lengths available upon request
TP316L stands out for its remarkable resistance to chloride-induced stress corrosion cracking, making it highly suitable for marine, coastal, and industrial environments where exposure to saltwater or harsh chemicals is prevalent. The addition of molybdenum (2.00-3.00%) enhances its resistance to pitting and crevice corrosion in chloride-containing media, outperforming 304 stainless steel in such conditions.
Thanks to its low carbon content, TP316L exhibits minimal carbide precipitation during welding, ensuring that the material’s corrosion resistance is not compromised in the heat-affected zone. This characteristic makes it an excellent choice for fabricated components and systems that require extensive welding, such as pipe networks and process equipment.
TP316L demonstrates good oxidation resistance, with intermittent service up to 870°C and continuous service up to 925°C. While continuous use in the range of 425-860°C is not recommended for applications requiring subsequent aqueous corrosion resistance, the low-carbon structure of 316L provides better resistance to carbide precipitation in this temperature range compared to its higher-carbon counterparts.
Despite its low carbon content, TP316L maintains impressive mechanical properties, including a minimum tensile strength of 485 MPa and elongation of 40%. This combination of strength and ductility allows for easy fabrication through processes such as forming, stamping, and bending, while ensuring the final product can withstand demanding service conditions.
TP316L is widely recognized for its biocompatibility, making it an ideal material for medical devices and surgical instruments. Its resistance to corrosion from bodily fluids and ability to withstand repeated sterilization processes further enhance its suitability for use in the healthcare industry. Additionally, its smooth surface finish and non-reactive nature make it perfect for food and pharmaceutical processing applications where hygiene is of utmost importance.
Boat fittings, marine hardware, and underwater structures
Desalination plant components
Offshore oil and gas platforms
Surgical instruments and medical devices
Hospital equipment and furniture
Implantable devices (due to biocompatibility)
Food processing equipment: tanks, mixers, and conveyors
Commercial kitchenware and utensils
Brewing and dairy processing systems
Valves, pumps, and heat exchangers
Equipment for handling acids, alkalis, and corrosive chemicals
Petrochemical and refinery installations
Outdoor architectural elements in coastal areas
Jewelry and watch components
Decorative fixtures and fittings
The primary difference lies in their carbon content. 316 has a carbon content of ≤0.08%, while 316L has ≤0.035%. This lower carbon content in 316L reduces the risk of carbide precipitation during welding, making it more suitable for applications where weldability and post-weld corrosion resistance are critical.
Yes, TP316L is highly resistant to saltwater corrosion and is commonly used in marine applications, including boat fittings, offshore structures, and desalination plants. Its molybdenum content provides excellent resistance to chloride-induced pitting and stress corrosion cracking.
TP316L can be used intermittently up to 870°C and continuously up to 925°C. However, continuous use in the range of 425-860°C is not recommended if subsequent aqueous corrosion resistance is important. For high-temperature applications, 316H may be a more suitable choice due to its higher strength at elevated temperatures.
Like other austenitic stainless steels, TP316L is typically non-magnetic in its as-welded and annealed condition. However, it may exhibit slight magnetism if cold worked, as the cold working process can induce a small amount of martensitic phase, which is magnetic.
TP316L pipes are packaged to ensure protection during transportation. Common packaging methods include ply wooden boxes, PE fabric bundles, and standard seaworthy export packing. Plastic bags can also be used as required to prevent scratches and contamination.
Austenitic stainless steels like TP316L cannot be hardened by traditional heat treatment methods. They are typically solution annealed to achieve maximum corrosion resistance and ductility. Cold working can be used to increase hardness, but this comes at the expense of reduced ductility.
Mill test certificates are provided as standard for all TP316L pipes. Additionally, 3.2 Certification can be provided according to customer requirements, ensuring compliance with specific industry standards and regulations.
