Butt-welding Pipe Fittings SS316L 1.4401 Stub End
There are many different types of 316 stainless steel. Some common types are the L, F, N, and H variants. Each is slightly different and each serves a different purpose. “L” means 316L steel has less carbon than 316.
While similar to the Type 304 commonly found in the food industry, both Types 316 and 316L exhibit better corrosion resistance and are stronger at elevated temperatures. Neither can be hardened by heat treatment, and can be easily shaped and stretched (pulled or pushed through a die or smaller hole).
316L stainless steel contains less carbon and molybdenum than typical 316 steel, which gives the two alloys different properties.