Stainless steel - basic grade characteristics
Notions such as āstainless steelā or āacid resistant steelā 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 |
|---|---|
| 304 | Very popular general purpose stainless steel. Used in food industry for parts that are not in contact with food. |
| 316 | Acid resistant steel widely used in chemical, pharmaceutical and food industry with improved corrosion resistance (in comparison to AISI 304 steel). |
| 316L | Acid resistant steel with reduced carbon content for increased intercrystalline corrosion resistance. Used especially for welding connections. |