Stainless steel - basic grade characteristics

Notions such as „stainless steel” or „acid resistant steel” are conventional. Each grade has a top corrosion resistance level defined for the specific working conditions which depend on e.g. temperature.
Type (AISI)Characteristics
304Very popular general purpose stainless steel. Used in food industry for parts that are not in contact with food.
316Acid resistant steel widely used in chemical, pharmaceutical and food industry with improved corrosion resistance
(in comparison to AISI 304 steel).
316LAcid resistant steel with reduced carbon content for increased intercrystalline corrosion resistance. Used
especially for welding connections.