Our laboratory is an expert in metallurgy and alloy analysis, particularly of 316L steel, and offers its expertise in analysing the chemical composition and control of metal alloy grades.
Your need: to carry out an analysis of 316L steel
Analysis of 316L steel
316L stainless steel is the second most common austenitic stainless steel after 304 stainless steel. Its main alloying components are iron, chromium (between 16 and 18%), nickel (10 to 12%), molybdenum (2 to 3%) and silicon (<1%). The addition of molybdenum makes it more resistant to corrosion than 304 steel.
Applications for 316L steel?
316L steel is used in a wide range of industrial sectors: marine and architectural construction, watchmaking and jewellery, chemicals and petrochemicals, pharmaceutical equipment, medical devices, food packaging, etc.
Analysis of the composition of 316L steel: essential quality control
Analysis of the chemical composition of 316L steel verifies the presence and concentration of essential alloying elements such as chromium, nickel, manganese and molybdenum, ensuring material compliance for safety- and performance-critical applications.
Why choose the FILAB laboratory to analyse 316L steels?
Our 316L steel analysis methods
We use advanced analysis techniques, such as spectrometry and ICP analysis, to accurately detect the chemical composition of 316L steels. These methods can be used to measure elemental content and ensure material quality.
Our analysis of 316L steels and alloys
Iron: steel, steel 316l, stainless steel, cast iron
Cobalt : Cobalt Stellite Grade 6, Cobalt Stellite Grade 21
Nickel (Nitinol, Inconel 718, Inconel 625, René 77, Hastelloy X)
Composition analysis enables quality control and ensures the conformity of stainless steel for demanding industrial applications.
Analysis of the chemical composition and testing of stainless steel alloy grades: stainless steel 304L, incox 430, stainless steel 409, etc.
Analysis of stainless steels and determination of steel grades in accordance with standards NF EN 10088-1, NF EN 10088-2 and NF EN 10088-3
Our 316L steel analysis services
In addition to routine metallurgical analysis, the FILAB laboratory can provide you with expert metallurgical analysis and failure studies on your 316L steel samples:
Metallographic examination of 316L steel
Weld analysis on 316L steel
Study of fracture surfaces on 316L steel
Study of ageing (corrosion, surface alteration, etc.) on 316L steel
Thickness measurement of 316L steel
Study of corrosion resistance on 316L steel
Analysis and characterization of 316L steel surfaces (roughness, defects, etc.)
Analysis Alloy composition
Study of microstructures 316L steel material
FAQ
316L stainless steel is a versatile alloy widely used in many industrial sectors due to its excellent properties. Here are just some of the industrial sectors that use this alloy:
- The chemical industry uses it mainly because of its high resistance to corrosion
- The pharmaceutical industry uses it for the manufacture of laboratory equipment or any other equipment useful for pharmaceutical production
- The automotive industry uses it for the manufacture of engine parts, exhausts or components.
The properties of 316L steel mean that it can be used in a wide range of situations. What are they?
- High resistance to corrosion
- Resistance to acids and bases
- Resistance to fatigue and wear
- Biocompatibility, making it suitable for use in the manufacture of medical devices
The difference lies in the carbon content:
- 316: ≤ 0.08% carbon
- 316L: ≤ 0.03%
316L is better suited to welded applications or applications sensitive to localised corrosion. It is preferred in demanding environments (medical, chemical, offshore, etc.).
Excellent corrosion resistance (acidic, chlorinated and saline environments)
Very good weldability
Good mechanical properties
Good temperature resistance (~800°C continuous)
Biocompatibility, making it suitable for medical devices
Yes, a precise chemical analysis can confirm that a steel corresponds to grade 316L (by measuring Cr, Ni, Mo, C, etc.). It can be supplemented by a hardness or structure analysis if necessary.
Yes. 316L polishes very well for aesthetic or hygienic applications, and can be chemically passivated to reinforce its protective layer.
