304316

304316 is not a standard designation for a stainless steel grade. In practice, there is no widely recognized alloy labeled exactly “304316.” The term may appear as a manufacturer’s internal code, a shorthand for a product that combines or is available in both 304 and 316 grades, or simply a misreference to one of those well-known grades.

The two most common austenitic stainless steels are 304 and 316. 304 stainless steel typically contains about 18% chromium and 8–10.5% nickel, with low carbon content in the popular 304 and 304L variants. It offers good corrosion resistance, formability, and weldability, and is widely used in kitchen equipment, architectural components, and chemical processing equipment.

316 stainless steel is similar to 304 but includes about 2–3% molybdenum, which enhances resistance to chloride corrosion and pitting. Its 316L variant provides even lower carbon content for better weld quality in heat-affected zones. 316 is favored for marine environments, chemical processing, and sanitary applications, where higher corrosion resistance is required.

If a supplier uses the label “304316,” it is advisable to verify the exact composition and properties. Materials decisions should consider corrosion exposure, mechanical requirements, fabrication methods, and approved standards (such as ASTM or EN grades). In general, 304 is a versatile everyday stainless steel, while 316 offers superior performance in chloride-rich or more aggressive environments. See also 304 and 316 stainless steels for more detailed specifications.