ThePipingMart Blog Metals Duplex Stainless Steel vs. 316 Stainless Steel – What is the Differences

Duplex Stainless Steel vs. 316 Stainless Steel – What is the Differences

duplex stainless steel, 316 stainless steel

What is Duplex Stainless Steel?

Duplex stainless steel is a type of stainless steel with both austenitic and ferritic micro-structures in its metallurgical structure. When austenitic and ferritic phases are combined, the result is a material with greater strength and ductility than traditional austenitic stainless steel. This makes it more corrosion-resistant than traditional stainless steel. It is also ductile and stronger than other types of stainless steel.

Duplex stainless steel uses

Duplex stainless steels are used in a wide range of industries, including:

  • Petrochemical plants
  • Chemical industries
  • Oil and gas industry
  • Pulp and paper industries
  • Wastewater treatment

What is 316 stainless steel?

316 stainless steel is an austenitic chromium-nickel stainless steel with added molybdenum that increases its corrosion resistance. This makes it more resistant to pitting and crevice corrosion in chloride environments. It also has a higher resistance to general corrosion and is especially useful in high-temperature or acidic environments. This austenitic chromium-nickel alloy contains between 16 and 24% chromium and between 10 and 22% nickel.

316 Stainless steel uses

316 is widely used in domestic applications where its decorative properties and function are valued. Industrial applications tend towards less aggressive conditions where cleanliness as much as corrosion is required, such as

  • Food production industries
  • Dairy
  • Brewing.

Duplex Stainless Steel Vs 316 Stainless Steel

  • Duplex stainless steel has a lower nickel and molybdenum content, making it more cost-effective.
  • Duplex alloys are more resistant to chloride stress corrosion cracking than SS316.
  • Duplex steel is more durable than austenitic or stainless steel grades. It also provides excellent hardiness and form-ability.
  • Both duplex stainless steel and 316 stainless steel are austenitic stainless steels, which means they are non-magnetic and have excellent corrosion resistance.
  • Another difference between SS316 and duplex stainless steel is that SS316 contains 18% chromium and 8% nickel, whereas Duplex steel contains 18-28% chromium and 4.5-8% nickel or nickel austenitic.
  • One of the most significant differences between these types of stainless steel is their price. SS316 is typically more expensive than duplex steel because it contains more costly metals. However, duplex steel may be a better option for projects that require a material that is more resistant to corrosion.

Related Post