FAQ: If 304 is corrosion-resistant, why is mine rusting?

When 304 is Not Enough

There is nothing more frustrating than a component performing differently than you expect. This is often the case with customers who find that they’ve used their 304 stainless steel in an application that has resulted in rusting. While 304 stainless steel has some superpowers, due to its high percentage of chromium, it also has a kryptonite: chloride or saline solutions.

That’s where 316 swoops in to save the day. 316 has many of the same characteristics as 304, but the addition of molybdenum makes 316 even more corrosion-resistant than 304. It allows 316 to be used in highly acidic and caustic environments while avoiding pitting. 316 is also better able to withstand stronger sterilization processes that subject it to strong disinfectants and/or high temperatures and the types of chloride environments that wreak havoc on 304. For applications requiring long-term immersion in seawater or salty air, particularly marine applications, 316 is a much better option.

In line with the industry trends for non-implantable medical devices, 304 continues to be the most popular alloy Component Supply offers and fabricates. It’s flexible, corrosion-resistant, and easily fabricated. But, if it’s not performing how you’d like, let us help you find an alloy better suited for your application.