304 / 316 Stainless at a glance
| UNS 304 | S30400 |
| UNS 316 | S31600 |
| Yield strength (annealed) | ~30 ksi (both) |
| Tensile strength | ~75 ksi |
| Hardness (annealed) | ~90 HRB (~215 HB) |
| Machinability rating | Moderate (work hardens if abused) |
Conditions we routinely machine:
Annealed (standard)Cold-worked (higher strength)
Where we machine 304 / 316 Stainless
Capabilities
Industries served
Typical 304 / 316 Stainless parts
- General industrial corrosion-resistant hardware
- Food-grade equipment components
- Marine hardware (316)
- Pressure-vessel fittings
- Sanitary tubing and fittings
Frequently asked questions
304 vs 316 — which for my part?
316 for chloride environments, marine service, medical/pharma. 304 for general corrosion where chloride isn't a factor — significantly cheaper. Ask your designer if the drawing calls for 316 specifically.
What's tricky about austenitic stainless machining?
Work hardens under dull tools or slow feeds. Sharp coated carbide inserts, aggressive feed, and disciplined SFM prevent the surface layer from work-hardening and destroying tool life.