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Stainless Steel Pipe | Round AISI 304L/316 Cost-Effective Tubes
Stainless Steel Pipe | Round AISI 304L/316 Cost-Effective Tubes
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Stainless Steel Pipe | Round AISI 304L/316 Cost-Effective Tubes
Product Overview
Our AISI 304L and 316 stainless steel pipes are engineered for superior performance across industries, combining corrosion resistance, durability, and cost efficiency. Ideal for applications ranging from stainless steel exhaust pipe tips to industrial plumbing systems, these pipes excel in high-pressure, high-temperature, and corrosive environments. With global stock availability and fast delivery, we ensure seamless integration into projects requiring reliability and longevity.
Technical Specifications
Property | 304L (UNS S30403) | 316 (UNS S31600) |
---|---|---|
Standards | ASTM A312, ASTM A269 | ASTM A312, ASTM A213 |
Material Grade | Austenitic (Low Carbon) | Austenitic (Molybdenum-Enhanced) |
Outer Diameter (OD) | 6mm – 762mm (1/8" – 30") | 6mm – 610mm (1/8" – 24") |
Wall Thickness | 0.35mm – 60mm | 0.5mm – 40mm |
Hardness (HRB) | ≤90 | ≤90 |
Tensile Strength | ≥515 MPa | ≥485 MPa |
Yield Strength | ≥205 MPa | ≥170 MPa |
Surface Finish | Pickled, Polished, Industrial | Annealed, Mirror Finish |
Processing | Seamless/Welded | Cold Rolled/Hot Drawn |
Key Attributes
- Corrosion Resistance: Enhanced by 18-20% chromium (304L) and 16-18% chromium + 2-3% molybdenum (316), ideal for acidic, saline, or chloride-rich environments.
- Thermal Stability: Withstands temperatures up to 870°C (304L) and 843°C (316), perfect for exhaust systems and heat exchangers.
- Hygienic Design: Smooth inner surfaces prevent bacterial growth, making them suitable for food processing and water filtration.
- Eco-Friendly: 100% recyclable with minimal environmental impact.
Detailed Performance Characteristics
Tensile & Bend Strength
- Tensile Strength:
- 304L: Minimum 515 MPa ensures structural integrity in high-stress applications like hydraulic systems and stainless steel exhaust pipe tips.
- 316: 485 MPa tensile strength combined with molybdenum’s stress corrosion cracking resistance, ideal for marine or chemical industries.
- Bend Strength: Both grades exhibit excellent ductility due to their austenitic microstructure. This ensures roundness retention even under extreme bending pressures, critical for plumbing and HVAC systems.
Identification Methods
- Laser Etching/Stamping: Permanent markings include grade (e.g., "304L" or "316"), OD, thickness, and heat number per ASTM A480.
- Certification: Mill Test Reports (MTRs) validate chemical composition (e.g., Cr, Ni, Mo) and mechanical properties for traceability.
Weight Calculation
Use the formula:
Example: A stainless steel or copper plumbing pipe with 76.2 mm OD and 3 mm WT weighs ~5.4 kg/m. Stainless steel’s density (7.93 g/cm³) ensures lighter weight compared to copper (8.96 g/cm³), reducing installation costs.
Causes of Stainless Steel Rust
Despite its corrosion resistance, rust can occur under:
- Chloride Exposure: High chloride concentrations (e.g., seawater) disrupt the passive chromium oxide layer, causing pitting.
- Mechanical Damage: Scratches or abrasions expose raw metal to oxidation.
- Galvanic Corrosion: Contact with dissimilar metals (e.g., carbon steel) in conductive fluids accelerates degradation.
- Improper Welding: Carbon precipitation in heat-affected zones reduces corrosion resistance, mitigated by using low-carbon 304L.
Stainless Steel vs. Copper Plumbing
Factor | Stainless Steel | Copper |
---|---|---|
Corrosion Resistance | Superior (passive oxide layer) | Prone to pitting in acidic water |
Durability | Longer lifespan (50+ years) | 20-30 years (susceptible to scaling) |
Cost | Higher upfront cost, lower lifecycle cost | Lower upfront cost, higher maintenance |
Eco-Friendliness | 100% recyclable, low environmental impact | Mining-intensive, limited recycling |
Thermal Conductivity | Low (ideal for insulation) | High (requires additional insulation) |
Why Choose Our Stainless Steel Pipes?
- Global Stock & Fast Delivery: Immediate dispatch of stainless steel exhaust pipe tips and custom sizes, minimizing project delays.
- Certified Quality: Compliance with ASTM, ISO 9001, and SGS standards ensures reliability for stainless steel or copper plumbing pipe comparisons.
- Custom Solutions: Tailored dimensions, surface finishes, and welding techniques for seamless integration.
- Cost Efficiency: Competitive pricing with long-term savings from reduced maintenance and replacements.
- Sustainability: Recyclable material with a low carbon footprint.
