Stainless Steel 316L is the material of choice for applications where corrosion resistance is non-negotiable — seawater, body fluids, chlorinated environments, and aggressive chemicals. The addition of molybdenum (2–3%) gives 316L dramatically better chloride corrosion resistance than 304, while the low carbon ('L') designation prevents carbide precipitation during welding and heat cycling. At OrangeSea CNC, 316L is our primary stainless grade for medical device components, marine fittings, chemical handling parts, and food processing hardware. We machine it every day with the correct tools, speeds, and coolant strategy to avoid work-hardening and deliver clean, burr-free parts.
Technical Data
Material Properties
Capabilities
Why CNC Machine SS 316L?
Marine-Grade Corrosion Resistance
Molybdenum content resists chloride pitting and crevice corrosion that attacks 304 in seawater and salt-spray environments.
Biocompatible
316L is ISO 10993 biocompatible and widely used in surgical instruments, implant trial components, and diagnostic devices.
Full Passivation Available
We passivate all 316L parts per ASTM A967 or ASTM A380 as standard for medical and marine customers — no extra charge.
Excellent Weldability
Low carbon content prevents intergranular corrosion at weld heat-affected zones — critical for welded marine and process piping assemblies.
High Temperature Capable
Maintains corrosion resistance and mechanical properties at elevated temperatures — suitable for heat exchanger and process plant components.
Aesthetically Cleanable
Easily polished to mirror finish (Ra ≤0.2 µm) for surgical instruments and food-contact surfaces requiring hygienic cleanability.
Use Cases
What We Machine in SS 316L
Engineering Tips
Design for Machining — SS 316L
Always specify passivation for medical or marine orders — it removes free iron from the surface and maximises corrosion resistance
316L work-hardens quickly — use sharp tooling, correct feeds/speeds, and do not dwell in the cut. Our machinists know this material well
For Ra ≤0.4 µm surface finish, specify it explicitly on the drawing — we select appropriate tooling and feeds accordingly
Threads in 316L can gall against other stainless fasteners — specify anti-galling treatment or use 316L bolts into brass/aluminium inserts
Delta ferrite content in 316L can cause slight magnetic response — if magnetic permeability is critical, specify and we will source accordingly
Surface Options
Available Finishes
Related Materials
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