1. Different ingredients
The composition of 304 stainless steel is composed of 18% chromium and about 8% nickel; while 316 stainless steel has about 2% molybdenum in addition to chromium and nickel. The different components also make the two different in performance.
2. Different performance
The molybdenum element contained in 316 stainless steel makes it have very good corrosion resistance. It is also more resistant to some acidic and alkaline substances and will not be corroded. Therefore, the corrosion resistance of 304 stainless steel is naturally inferior to that of 316 stainless steel.
3. Different applications
304 stainless steel and 316 stainless steel are both food-grade materials, but because 316 has better corrosion resistance and acid and alkali resistance, it will be more used in some medical equipment and other fields, while 304 stainless steel is more used in In our kitchen, such as tableware, kitchen utensils, stainless steel countertops, etc.
Although 304 stainless steel does not have the superior performance of 316, the performance of 304 stainless steel is sufficient to meet daily needs, and the cost of 304 stainless steel is more cost-effective, so it is more cost-effective. And if there is a higher demand for use, then you can choose 316 stainless steel to better meet the needs of the occasion.
