Low-carbon stainless grades 304L (ASTM A276) and 316L (ASTM A276) offer enhanced corrosion resistance:
304L (GB 022Cr19Ni10): Contains 18–20% Cr and 8–12% Ni with ≤0.03% C, preventing sensitization during welding. Resists general corrosion in food processing and architectural applications but struggles with chloride-rich environments.
316L (GB 022Cr17Ni12Mo2): Adds 2–3% Mo to 304L's composition, boosting pitting resistance (PREN 32 vs. 304L's 21). Ideal for marine hardware and chemical tanks, enduring 5% salt spray for 1,000+ hours without rust.
Both have 170 MPa minimum yield strength. 316L commands a 30% price premium over 304L, justified for coastal or industrial use-China's marine engineering sector imports 120,000 tons/year of 316L.