In this article, we will focus on two common stainless steel alloys, 316 vs 347 stainless steel. These two alloys are widely used in engineering and manufacturing, but there are important differences, advantages, and disadvantages between them. Understanding these differences is critical to properly selecting materials to meet specific needs.
316 Stainless Steel
316 stainless steel is one of the most commonly used grades of stainless steel due to its broad applicability, good corrosion resistance, and favorable mechanical properties. It is suitable for a wide range of environments and applications, making it a popular choice in various industries.
347 Stainless Steel
347 stainless steel has many advantages over 316 stainless steel, but its main advantage is its ability to withstand higher temperatures without losing strength or becoming brittle. This makes it an excellent choice for extreme temperature applications, such as turbines or boilers where temperatures may exceed 1000°F (537°C). It has higher corrosion resistance than 316 stainless steel due to its higher chromium, nickel, molybdenum, titanium, and aluminum content. Additionally, 347 stainless steel is non-magnetic and has good ductility (can be easily formed into a variety of shapes).
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316 vs 347 Stainless Steel – What’s the Difference
316 and 347 are both stainless steel alloys, but they have different compositions and are designed for different applications. Here are the key differences between 316 and 347 stainless steel:
Chemical Composition:
- 316 Stainless Steel: It is an austenitic stainless steel with a composition of approximately 16-18% chromium, 10-14% nickel, 2-3% molybdenum, and small amounts of other elements such as manganese, silicon, and carbon. The addition of molybdenum enhances its corrosion resistance, especially in chloride environments.
- 347 Stainless Steel: It is also an austenitic stainless steel but contains niobium (columbium) in addition to chromium and nickel. The composition is approximately 17-20% chromium, 9-13% nickel, and 10-12% niobium, along with small amounts of other elements.
Corrosion Resistance:
- Both 316 and 347 stainless steel offer good corrosion resistance, but 316 is particularly well-suited for applications involving exposure to corrosive environments, such as marine or chemical processing.
High-Temperature Performance:
- 316 Stainless Steel: It has good high-temperature resistance but may be prone to sensitization, which is the formation of chromium carbides at grain boundaries, reducing corrosion resistance in certain environments.
- 347 Stainless Steel: The addition of niobium helps to stabilize the material against sensitization, making it more suitable for high-temperature applications. It is often used in elevated temperature service.
Sensitization and Intergranular Corrosion:
- 316 Stainless Steel: It can be susceptible to sensitization, especially during welding, which may lead to intergranular corrosion in certain environments.
- 347 Stainless Steel: The niobium content in 347 stainless steel helps prevent sensitization, making it less prone to intergranular corrosion after exposure to high temperatures.
Applications:
- 316 Stainless Steel: Commonly used in applications where corrosion resistance is essential, such as marine environments, chemical processing, and medical equipment.
- 347 Stainless Steel: Often used in high-temperature applications such as heat exchangers, boiler tubes, and exhaust systems. Its resistance to sensitization makes it suitable for applications involving welding and exposure to elevated temperatures.
Cost：
The cost of stainless steel can vary based on a variety of factors, including specific grades, market conditions, and supplier pricing. Generally speaking, 316 stainless steel is more commonly used and has been on the market longer, which helps it cost less than some of the more specialized alloys.
316 stainless steel is generally less expensive than 347 stainless steel. The main reason for this cost difference is the presence of more complex alloying elements in 347 stainless steel, specifically the addition of niobium, which helps enhance its high-temperature properties.
However, it is important to note that prices may fluctuate based on market conditions, supply and demand, and other factors. For the most accurate and up-to-date information on the cost difference between 316 and 347 stainless steel, it is recommended to contact us directly or other stainless steel suppliers, distributors, or manufacturers. We can provide current pricing based on the specific quantity, size, and other requirements of your application.
In Conclusion:
In summary, the choice between 316 vs 347 stainless steel depends on the specific requirements of the application, particularly regarding corrosion resistance and high-temperature performance. If you need excellent corrosion resistance in a variety of environments, 316 may be more suitable. If you’re dealing with high temperatures and want to avoid sensitization issues, 347 might be a better choice.