316l is a low carbon, austenitic stainless steel that is melted as an AOD or AOD + VAR melt. This grade delivers a number of benefits, including increased corrosion resistance and pitting resistance.
This grade is also immune to grain boundary carbide precipitation, making it an ideal choice for welding applications. In addition, 316l is often used to make sanitary high-purity pharmaceutical process piping and semiconductor manufacturing process piping.
Compared to 304, the molybdenum content of this grade makes it more corrosion-resistant, which is why it is commonly used in marine environments and seawater applications. 316l is also more ductile than 304, allowing it to be formed into various shapes and sizes without breaking or cracking.
It can be weldted to many other types of steel and metal, so it’s ideal for forming the shapes you need without breaking or cracking. 316l is slightly less malleable than 316, so it’s not as effective for bending and cutting.
Stainless steel is a popular material for rapid prototyping because it has many benefits, including durability, anti-corrosive properties and strength. Whether you are printing a piece of equipment for a hospital or a custom part for a home, 316l can help you get the job done faster and more affordably.
