Stainless Steel Grade AISI 316F

AISI 316F | S31620 is a low-carbon modification of the popular AISI 316 stainless steel grade. It contains iron, carbon, silicon, manganese, phosphorus, sulfur, chromium, nickel and molybdenum. The addition of molybdenum gives AISI 316F better resistance to corrosion and pitting, making it ideal for use in aggressive conditions.

Corrosion resistance

Stainless steel AISI 316F provides excellent corrosion resistance due to its composition, especially the addition of molybdenum. It can withstand aggressive environments, including seawater, acids and alkalis. However, prolonged exposure to high temperatures can reduce its corrosion resistance, hence the need for heat treatment.

Heat treatment

Heat treatment can improve the strength and corrosion resistance of AISI 316F stainless steel. The recommended treatment is annealing at 1010 °C - 1120 °C followed by cooling in air or water. This process can also improve flexibility and strength.

Mechanical processing

Stainless steel of this grade is difficult to process due to its hardness and strength. However, precise processing results can be achieved using cutting, carbide and ceramic tools made of high-speed steel. It is also important to use high-quality cooling, lubricating and cutting fluids to prevent overheating and tool wear.

Сварка

AISI 316F stainless steel is well suited for welding due to its low carbon content. It can be welded using a variety of methods, including gas tungsten arc welding, gas metal arc welding, and shielded metal arc welding. However, following the recommended welding parameters is necessary to prevent cracking and ensure a quality weld.

Mechanical properties

Table: mechanical properties of stainless steel grade AISI 316F | S31620
Tensile strength, min., MPa	585
Yield strength, 0.2%, MPa	260
Relative elongation, min., %	40
Hardness, Rockwell B	85
Modulus of elasticity kN/mm²	190-210

Physical properties

Table: physical properties of stainless steel grade AISI 316F | S31620
Density g/cm³	7,98
*Specific heat capacity at +20°C, J/kgK**	500
*Thermal conductivity at +20°C, W/mK**	16,3
*Specific electrical resistance at +20°C, μOhmm**	0,74
Magnetic properties	non-magnetic

Table: chemical composition of steel grade AISI 316F | S31620
Chemical composition of steel grade AISI 316F \| S31620
C	Si	Mn	P	S	Cr	Mo	Ni	Fe
0,08	<1,0	<2,0	<0,2	0,10>	17,0-19,0	1,75-2,5	12,0-14,0	Other

Application

Stainless steel AISI 316F is used in various chemical, marine and food industries. The alloy is popular for the manufacture of surgical instruments, pharmaceutical equipment and implants. Excellent corrosion resistance makes it suitable for work in harsh conditions, including exposure to seawater, acids and alkalis.

Stainless steel AISI 316F | S31620 is a unique stainless steel variant that provides excellent corrosion resistance, strength and durability. Its composition, mechanical and physical properties make it suitable for a variety of applications in the chemical, marine and food industries. However, its machining and welding can be difficult and require proper tooling, coolants and welding parameters. Following the recommended heat treatment and machining / welding parameters allows for precise, high-quality results when using this superior material.