Stainless Steel 316L Fasteners: Properties, Advantages, and Applications
Stainless steel fasteners are integral components in various industries due to their remarkable strength, durability, and resistance to corrosion. Among the many types available, 316L stainless steel fasteners stand out for their exceptional properties, particularly in environments exposed to extreme conditions. These fasteners are designed to provide long-lasting performance, even in the most corrosive environments.
In this detailed guide, we will explore what 316L stainless steel fasteners are, their properties, advantages, and various applications across different sectors. As an industry leader, ASC LLP offers a wide range of high-quality stainless steel 316L fasteners that meet stringent industry standards.
What are Stainless Steel 316L Fasteners?
Stainless steel fasteners are mechanical devices used to hold two or more objects together, often in construction, industrial, or manufacturing applications. Fasteners made from stainless steel are preferred in many industries due to their resistance to rust, corrosion, and high-temperature environments. 316L stainless steel fasteners belong to the austenitic class of stainless steels, specifically engineered for applications requiring superior corrosion resistance.
316L stainless steel fasteners are a low-carbon variant of 316 stainless steel, which contains molybdenum and chromium. The lower carbon content (L stands for “Low Carbon”) minimizes the risk of carbide precipitation during welding, enhancing the metal’s overall resistance to corrosion, especially in chloride-rich environments.
Properties of 316L Stainless Steel Fasteners
- Corrosion Resistance: One of the most significant advantages of 316L stainless steel fasteners is their exceptional corrosion resistance. The molybdenum content enhances their ability to withstand chlorides, making them highly resistant to pitting and crevice corrosion. This property is particularly important in marine environments, where constant exposure to saltwater can easily corrode lower-grade fasteners.
- High-Temperature Tolerance: 316L SS fasteners can maintain their strength and integrity at high temperatures, up to about 800°C (1472°F). This makes them ideal for applications where they will be exposed to extreme heat, such as in furnaces, exhaust systems, or high-temperature chemical processing equipment.
- Low Carbon Content: The reduced carbon content in 316L SS fasteners prevents carbide precipitation, a process that can occur during welding and lead to intergranular corrosion. This means 316L stainless steel fasteners are perfect for welded structures and assemblies, as they resist degradation in welded joints, ensuring long-term durability and performance.
- Non-Magnetic Properties: 316L SS fasteners are non-magnetic in their annealed state, making them suitable for applications where magnetic interference needs to be avoided, such as in medical equipment and precision instruments.
- Strength and Toughness: 316L stainless steel fasteners have excellent mechanical properties, offering a perfect balance of high tensile strength and ductility. This ensures they can withstand heavy loads and harsh conditions without breaking or deforming.
- Aesthetic Appeal: For applications where appearance matters, such as in architectural designs or high-end equipment, 316L stainless steel fasteners provide a sleek and polished finish, making them visually appealing while remaining highly functional.
Advantages of 316L Stainless Steel Fasteners
- Outstanding Corrosion Resistance: The primary advantage of 316L SS fasteners is their superior corrosion resistance. In environments where moisture, salt, or harsh chemicals are present, these fasteners outperform many other materials, ensuring long-term durability without the need for frequent replacements.
- Excellent Durability: Thanks to their high strength, 316L SS fasteners are incredibly durable. They are resistant to wear and tear, capable of withstanding high-stress applications, and offer a long service life even in the most demanding conditions.
- Low Maintenance: Unlike other metals that may require regular maintenance to prevent rust or deterioration, 316L stainless steel fasteners are virtually maintenance-free due to their inherent resistance to corrosion and environmental damage.
- Environmentally Friendly: Stainless steel, including 316L, is fully recyclable. This makes 316L stainless steel fasteners an environmentally responsible choice for industries focused on sustainability and reducing their environmental footprint.
- Versatility: From construction to aerospace, marine, and medical equipment, 316L stainless steel fasteners can be used across a wide range of industries. Their versatility is due to their combination of strength, corrosion resistance, and ability to withstand extreme conditions.
- Cost-Effective in the Long Run: While the initial cost of 316L SS fasteners may be higher than fasteners made from lower-grade materials, the long-term savings are significant. Their longevity and low maintenance requirements reduce the need for replacements, making them cost-effective over time.
Schedule and Size Chart
| Fastener Type | Diameter (mm) | Length (mm) | Thread Size |
| Bolts (Hex, Socket, etc.) | 3 – 36 | 6 – 300 | M3 – M36 |
| Screws (Machine, Wood) | 2 – 24 | 6 – 150 | M2 – M24 |
| Nuts (Hex, Lock, etc.) | 3 – 36 | – | M3 – M36 |
| Washers (Plain, Spring) | 2 – 30 | – | M2 – M30 |
| Stud Bolts | 6 – 36 | 30 – 300 | M6 – M36 |
Mechanical Properties Chart
| Property | Value |
| Tensile Strength | 485 MPa (70 ksi) |
| Yield Strength | 170 MPa (25 ksi) |
| Elongation (% in 50 mm) | 40% |
| Hardness (Brinell) | 217 HB max |
| Hardness (Rockwell B) | 95 HRB max |
| Modulus of Elasticity | 193 GPa (28 x 10⁶ psi) |
| Fatigue Strength | 245 MPa (35.5 ksi) |
Specifications Chart
| Standard/Specification | Description |
| ASTM A193 | Standard for Alloy and Stainless Steel Bolting Materials |
| ASTM A194 | Standard for Carbon and Alloy Steel Nuts for Bolts |
| ASTM A320 | Standard for Low-Temperature Service Fasteners |
| DIN 931, DIN 933 | Standards for Hex Bolts |
| DIN 934 | Standard for Hex Nuts |
| ISO 3506 | Standard for Mechanical Properties of Corrosion-Resistant Fasteners |
| ASME B18.2.1 | Standard for Square and Hex Bolts and Screws |
| ASME B18.2.2 | Standard for Square and Hex Nuts |
Chemical Composition Chart
| Element | Percentage (%) |
| Carbon (C) | 0.03 max |
| Chromium (Cr) | 16.00 – 18.00 |
| Nickel (Ni) | 10.00 – 14.00 |
| Molybdenum (Mo) | 2.00 – 3.00 |
| Manganese (Mn) | 2.00 max |
| Silicon (Si) | 0.75 max |
| Phosphorus (P) | 0.045 max |
| Sulfur (S) | 0.03 max |
| Iron (Fe) | Balance |
Physical Properties Chart
| Property | Value |
| Density | 8.0 g/cm³ |
| Melting Range | 1375 – 1400°C (2510 – 2550°F) |
| Specific Heat Capacity | 500 J/kg·K |
| Electrical Resistivity | 0.074 x 10⁶ Ω·m |
| Thermal Conductivity | 16.3 W/m·K (at 100°C) |
| Thermal Expansion Coefficient | 16.5 µm/m·°C (0 – 100°C) |
| Magnetic Permeability | Non-magnetic in annealed condition |
Applications Chart
| Industry | Application |
| Marine | Fasteners in shipbuilding, offshore platforms, and underwater equipment |
| Petrochemical | Fasteners for pipelines, valves, and refinery equipment |
| Pharmaceutical | Used in equipment and systems requiring sanitary, non-corrosive environments |
| Food Processing | Equipment and machinery that require corrosion resistance and ease of cleaning |
| Construction | Fasteners in structural components exposed to harsh environmental conditions |
| Oil and Gas | Fasteners for drilling platforms, pipelines, and processing plants |
| Power Generation | Fasteners in nuclear reactors, turbines, and other high-stress environments |
| Automotive | Fasteners for exhaust systems, engine parts, and high-temperature components |
| Chemical Processing | Equipment that handles corrosive chemicals and high-temperature processes |
| Water Treatment | Fasteners in desalination plants, waste treatment systems, and water tanks |
At ASC LLP, we pride ourselves on offering high-quality 316L SS fasteners that deliver exceptional performance across a wide range of industries. With their superior corrosion resistance, strength, and versatility, these fasteners are the preferred choice for professionals seeking reliability and longevity in harsh environments.
Whether you need fasteners for marine applications, chemical processing, or construction projects, our 316L stainless steel fasteners are designed to meet your most demanding requirements. Contact us today to learn more about our product range and how we can provide you with the best stainless steel fastener solutions.
Global Reach
Amardeep Steel Centre boasts a robust global presence, committed to delivering unparalleled service and quality to clients around the world. Our dedication to prompt delivery and exceptional customer care sets us apart in the industry. Major corporations across the USA, Europe, Asia, and other regions place their trust in our high-quality Stainless Steel 316L Fasteners. This widespread trust underscores our reputation for reliability and excellence. By consistently meeting and exceeding the expectations of our international clientele, we continue to solidify our position as a leader in the global steel market.
Countries We Export To
UNITED STATES, EUROPE, UK, UAE, SAUDI ARABIA, OMAN, KUWAIT, JORDAN, QATAR, INDONESIA, MALAYSIA, BRAZIL, SPAIN, ITALY, FRANCE, GERMANY, BAHRAIN, SRI LANKA, AZERBAIJAN, AUSTRALIA, AUSTRIA, PHILIPPINES, TURKEY, RUSSIA, IRAN, IRAQ, CANADA, KOREA, JAPAN, YEMEN, FINLAND, ZIMBABWE, HUNGARY, PORTUGAL, VIETNAM, MOROCCO, THAILAND, SOUTH AFRICA, MEXICO, SINGAPORE, GREECE, KUWAIT, POLAND, NEW ZEALAND, SWEDEN, SWITZERLAND, BELGIUM, BHUTAN, BANGLADESH, TAIWAN, ROMANIA, CAMBODIA, KAZAKHSTAN, AFGHANISTAN.
