For any questions about our services you can call us at: +86-188-7042-1176
Stainless Steel 316/316L CNC Machining Material
When standard 304 stainless steel cannot withstand the environment, Stainless Steel 316/316L is the mandatory upgrade. Distinguished by the addition of 2-3% Molybdenum, this austenitic alloy offers vastly superior resistance to pitting and crevice corrosion, particularly in chloride-rich environments like saltwater or chemical processing plants. At JUCHENG, machining this tough, work-hardening alloy is a daily operation. We employ rigid machining strategies and premium cutting tools to produce high-precision 316L components for the most demanding marine, medical, and pharmaceutical applications.
Stainless Steel 316/316L

JUCHENG's 316/316L Machining Capabilities

316 is tougher and less machinable than 304. We utilize advanced techniques to ensure quality:
  • Rigid Machining: We use high-rigidity CNC centers to handle the higher cutting forces required for 316 without vibration, ensuring dimensional accuracy.
  • Surface Integrity: We control cutting heat to prevent surface discoloration and maintain the passive oxide layer. We offer Electropolishing to further enhance corrosion resistance for medical and semiconductor parts.
  • Deep Hole Drilling: We specialize in drilling deep, straight bores in 316L for fluid manifolds, using high-pressure through-spindle coolant to evacuate chips.
  • Material Certification: We provide full traceability (Mill Certificates) confirming the Molybdenum content, essential for compliant medical and marine products.
Stainless Steel 316L marine shackle

Advantages of CNC Machining 316/316L

Advantage Detailed Description Key Benefit
Superior Corrosion Resistance The Molybdenum content specifically targets resistance to chlorides (salt) and acids. The #1 choice for marine hardware and chemical processing equipment where 304 would rust.
Biocompatibility Highly resistant to body fluids and sterilization processes. The standard material for surgical instruments and temporary medical implants.
High Temperature Strength Better creep resistance and strength at elevated temperatures than 304. Suitable for jet engine parts, exhaust manifolds, and heat exchangers.
Excellent Weldability (316L) Low carbon content eliminates carbide precipitation during welding. Ideal for heavy-gauge welded assemblies that cannot be annealed after fabrication.
Cleanliness Ultra-smooth surfaces can be achieved via electropolishing. Critical for pharmaceutical and semiconductor manufacturing environments.

Technical Parameters & Material Standards

We process both the standard and low-carbon versions for different needs:
Grade Category Ideal Applications Detailed Characteristics
Stainless Steel 316 High-temp chemical handling, heat exchangers, furnace parts, jet engine components. Standard Grade. Contains higher carbon than 316L. Offers slightly higher tensile strength and better creep resistance at high temperatures
Stainless Steel 316L Marine fittings, pharmaceutical tanks, surgical tools, semiconductor vacuum chambers, watch cases. Low Carbon Grade. Carbon is limited to max 0.03%. Prevents sensitization (weld decay). It is the preferred choice for heavy-section welding and corrosive environments.

CNC Machining Guidelines for 316

  • Machinability: 316 is tougher than 304 (Rated ~35% machinability vs B1112). It work-hardens rapidly.
  • Tooling Strategy: We use sharp, coated carbide tools and ensure a constant feed rate. "Dwelling" or rubbing the tool causes the surface to harden instantly, causing tool failure.
  • Coolant: Heavy flood coolant is non-negotiable to remove heat and extend tool life.
  • Post-Processing: Passivation (Nitric/Citric acid) is highly recommended after machining to remove any free iron and maximize the chrome-oxide passive layer.

Application Scenarios

  • Marine: Boat fittings, propeller shafts, rigging screws, desalination plant components.
  • Medical: Surgical clamps, scalpels, orthopedic implants (temporary), fixation pins.
  • Chemical & Pharma: Valves, pumps, mixing agitators, pressure vessels handling acids.
  • Luxury Goods: High-end watch cases, jewelry (due to hypoallergenic properties).
  • Energy: Nuclear fuel reprocessing and petroleum refining equipment.

Physical Properties Table

Comparison: 316L vs 304 (The Molybdenum Factor):
Property SS 316L SS 304 Unit
Density 8.00 8.00 g/cm³
Tensile Strength 485 515 MPa
Yield Strength 170 205 MPa
Molybdenum Content 2.0 - 3.0% None -
Corrosion Resistance Superior Good -
Machinability Difficult Moderate -
 
Jucheng Precision Factory
Request A Quote For Your Project!
ㆍFill in your requirements and upload your 2D&3D file, we will feedback your project quotation and DFM within 24 hours.
ㆍFile types: STEP, STP, IGES, IGS, SLDPRT, 3DM, SAT or X_T files File size: < 128 MB Part size: < 1500*1500*1500 mm
ㆍPrivacy: We respect your privacy. Here you can find an example of a non-disclosure agreement. By submitting this form, you agree to our terms & conditions and privacy policy.
Choose File
Get A Quote And Solution
Factory Address :
Shenzhen: Fourth Industrial Zone, Xisha Road, Shajing Street, Baoan District, Shenzhen.
Dongguan: 3rd Floor, Building 5, No. 198, Chang'an Section, Guanchang Road, Chang'an Town, Dongguan.
 
Sales Office: 
unit 1, Enterprise City,Durham DL16 6JF, united Kindom
 
 
+86 - 188 - 7042 - 1176
+86 - 186 - 8005 - 3076

Capabilities

CNC Machining
 
 
Jucheng Precision ISO 9001, ISO 14001, ISO 13485, IATF 16949

Resources

Technical FAQ

Company

About Us
Copyright © 2023 Jucheng Precision All rights reserved.