316 stainless steel pipe fittings elbow and flange
Stainless steel is a steel alloy that contains at least 10% chromium, making it corrosion resistant. The addition of chromium to stainless steel creates a thin film of metal oxide over the metal’s surface that protects against corrosive materials.
A popular grade of stainless steel is stainless steel 316 is generally composed of 16 to 18% chromium, 10 to 14% nickel, 2 to 3% molybdenum, and a small percentage of carbon. Grade 316 is a popular alloy of stainless steel with a melting range of 2,500 °F – 2,550 °F (1,371 °C – 1,399 °C). As an austenitic stainless steel alloy, it has qualities such as high strength, corrosion resistance, and high concentrations of chromium and nickel. Adding molybdenum to stainless steel 316 increases its corrosion resistance compared to other grades of stainless steel. The addition of other alloys further enhances its properties.