304 vs 316 Stainless Steel Wire Mesh: Which Alloy Should ...

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Stainless steel wire mesh is a highly adaptable material known for its durability, widely relied upon by various industries. Stainless steel encompasses numerous grades and specifications, which can sometimes make it challenging for lab technicians and engineers to determine the most suitable option.

Among all stainless steel classifications, 304 and 316 are the most prevalent. What sets them apart?

Having been engaged in the woven wire mesh industry for more than 140 years, W.S. Tyler possesses the knowledge to ensure you select the appropriate alloy for your needs.

This article will discuss what constitutes stainless steel, the concept of low carbon alloys, a comparison between 304 and 316 stainless steel mesh, and guidance on selecting the optimal alloy.

What Is Stainless Steel Alloy?

Stainless steel is one of the most utilized materials globally, underpinned by centuries of research into its production methods.

Regardless of the type of stainless steel one is using, it is generally categorized based on the quality of the alloy. For an alloy to qualify as stainless, it must contain a specific percentage of carbon and chromium.

In this context, we will analyze 304 stainless steel versus 316 stainless steel.

Low Carbon Alloy Steel

As mentioned earlier, most classifications in steel are determined by their carbon content. Alloys with less than 0.03% carbon fall under the category of low carbon steel, or L-grade.

This limited carbon amount diminishes carbide precipitation and enhances the alloy's resistance to corrosion.

This characteristic is particularly advantageous for applications where stainless steel wire mesh is exposed to moisture. Essentially, a higher carbon content within the alloy amplifies the likelihood of rust and corrosion in the presence of water.

How Do 304 and 316 Stainless Steel Compare?

The primary distinctions between 304 and 316 stainless steel mesh lie in their resistance to corrosion, overall durability, heat resistance, and workability.

304 stainless steel mesh consists of 18% chromium and 8% nickel, while 316 stainless steel mesh comprises 16% chromium, 10% nickel, and 2% molybdenum.

Due to the elevated nickel content and presence of molybdenum in 316, it is considered a superior quality alloy compared to 304. These enhancements contribute to greater resistance to corrosive environments, enhanced stability and durability, as well as higher resistance to extreme temperatures.

Both alloys are visually similar and share the same capacity for welding and fabrication customization.

Concerning cost, 316 stainless steel wire mesh is the pricier option of the two, although the price difference is minor. For instance, if 304 stainless steel mesh is priced at $1.00 per square foot, 316 stainless steel mesh would be roughly $1.15 per square foot.

This pricing structure remains unchanged regardless of whether you are using regular or L-grade 304 or 316 stainless steel.

Which Alloy Should I Use?

Selecting the right alloy depends on the specific application. If the mesh will be exposed to harsh environments with corrosive substances, 316 stainless steel is advisable.

For more insights, visit our page on automotive filtration wire mesh.

This is attributed to the molybdenum content in 316 stainless steel wire mesh, which equips it to handle more corrosive situations.

On the contrary, if the application involves sifting through non-corrosive materials, such as food particles or aggregates, 304 stainless steel mesh will suffice.

When welding is involved in fabrication, utilizing low carbon steel, whether 304 or 316, is recommended. The reason being, carbon absorbs heat, potentially complicating welding or heat treatment processes.

Thus, a higher carbon level in the alloy can make fabrication more challenging.

An Effective Operation Starts With Selecting The Right Alloy

The resilience of stainless steel wire mesh contributes to its versatility. Among the array of stainless steel specifications, 304 and 316 are the most commonly used.

Similar to other alloys, both 304 and 316 stainless steel mesh are categorized based on steel quality and the respective carbon and chromium contents. However, the alloy choice is just one factor amidst various specifications that are critical for selecting the appropriate woven wire mesh.

If welding is a consideration, opt for stainless steel with less than 0.03% carbon.

With over 140 years of experience in woven wire mesh, W.S. Tyler is well-equipped to assist you in identifying the perfect mesh specifications.

For more information on finding the right mesh specifications for your needs, you may refer to our article: How to Pick the Right Woven Wire Mesh (Mesh Count, Wire Diameter, and Micron Rating).