The differences between a 316L and a 316 grade

The differences between a 316L and 316 stainless steel grade aretwo-fold both in chemistry and mechanical properties.  The 316L grade hasa lower maximum carbon limit and the straight grade has increased mechanicalproperties.  If material is certified as straight grade, the carboncontent would have to be at a level of 0.030% maximum in order to be dualcertified as 316L/316 grade. (presumably the mechanicals would have alreadybeen met). If the material is certified as 316L that implies the carbon is a ta maximum level of 0.030% and this can only be certified to the straight gradeif the increased mechanicals are met. Below is  a summary comparing thetwo grades for both the stainless steel  flat bar and stainless steel round bar product.

If carbon is at or below 0.030% and tensile is at 75KSI min (andyield is at 30 min), the grade becomes dual certified.

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