Feb. 17, 2025
Stainless steel wire mesh is a highly durable and versatile material used across numerous industries. However, with various classifications and specifications, selecting the right type can be challenging for lab technicians and engineers.
Among the many stainless steel grades, Type 304 and Type 316 are the most widely used. But what sets them apart? Let’s break down the key differences to help you make an informed choice.
Stainless steel is one of the most widely used materials globally, backed by centuries of research and advancements in manufacturing. Regardless of the specific type, stainless steel is typically classified based on its alloy composition, with carbon and chromium levels playing a crucial role in determining its properties.
To better understand stainless steel alloys, let’s compare 304 stainless steel and 316 stainless steel—two of the most popular grades.
Steel classifications are largely influenced by carbon content. When an alloy contains less than 0.03% carbon, it is designated as low carbon steel, often referred to as L-grade.
A lower carbon content reduces carbide precipitation, which significantly enhances corrosion resistance. This makes low-carbon stainless steel especially suitable for applications where moisture exposure is a concern. The higher the carbon content in the alloy, the greater the risk of rust and corrosion when exposed to water.
The key differences between 304 and 316 stainless steel mesh lie in their corrosion resistance, durability, heat resistance, and formability.
- 304 stainless steel is composed of 18% chromium and 8% nickel, making it highly resistant to oxidation and general corrosion.
- 316 stainless steel contains 16% chromium, 10% nickel, and 2% molybdenum, which provides enhanced corrosion resistance, particularly against chlorides and harsh environments.
Because 316 has more nickel and contains molybdenum, it is higher quality than 304. These added benefits allow it to be more resistant to corrosive environments, more stable and durable, and more resistant to extreme temperatures.
That said, there are little to no differences between the two alloys visually. They also carry the same ability to be welded and customized during fabrication.
When it comes to cost, 316 stainless steel wire mesh stands as the most expensive of the two. But these margins are not that significant. If you don't need the added resistance of 316, standard 304 grades will offer similar performance and longevity at a lower price point. However, in situations where the added resistance is needed, 316 often improves the functional lifespan of the steel products by years.
The choice between 304 and 316 stainless steel mesh depends on the application’s environmental conditions and performance requirements.
- For corrosive environments – 316 stainless steel is the better option. The added molybdenum enhances resistance to chlorides, chemicals, and marine exposure, making it ideal for coastal, industrial, or chemical processing applications.
- For general use – 304 stainless steel is sufficient for non-corrosive applications, such as food processing, dry material filtration, and general industrial use.
Additionally, low-carbon variants (L-grade) of both alloys should be used for welding applications since higher carbon content can lead to heat absorption issues, making fabrication more challenging.
Stainless steel wire mesh is valued for its durability and versatility, making it a top choice across various industries. Among the many stainless steel grades, 304 and 316 remain the most widely used due to their balance of strength and corrosion resistance.
When selecting the right alloy, factors such as carbon and chromium content play a crucial role in determining performance. Additionally, if welding is required, opting for a low-carbon variant (L-grade) with less than 0.03% carbon is ideal, as it minimizes carbide precipitation and enhances weldability.
