304 vs 316L Stainless Steel: How to Choose the Right Grade for Your Project
304 and 316L are both austenitic stainless steels, but 316L's 2-3% molybdenum makes it far more resistant to chloride pitting (typical PREN ~25 vs ~19). This guide compares composition, corrosion resistance, strength and cost - with an application-by-application table, coastal and high-pollution guidance, and an order checklist. From MetalMagus (HANDYOU Stainless Steel), exporting to 60+ countries since 2001.
Sep 1,2026


