Stainless Steel 316 Polished Tube Encyclopedia

316 polished stainless steel tubing is manufactured from molybdenum-containing austenitic stainless steel, renowned for its exceptional corrosion resistance (particularly against chlorides) and good mechanical properties. The addition of molybdenum provides superior resistance to pitting and crevice corrosion compared to 304 stainless steel, making it an ideal choice for marine, food processing, chemical, and pharmaceutical applications. The "polished" finish enhances aesthetics, eases maintenance, and is suitable for use in hygienic environments. Low-carbon 316L stainless steel also provides improved weldability and resistance to sensitization.

No. 316 stainless steel is generally nonmagnetic because its austenitic crystal structure, stabilized by its high nickel content, is non-ferromagnetic. However, processes such as cold working (forming, bending, or welding) can alter its crystal structure, converting some of the austenite to ferrite or martensite (magnetic forms of iron), resulting in a slight magnetic attraction.