SS 304 or 316?

[pertyfly]

Does anyone know of any way I, myself, can test the SS to see if it is 304 or 316? I'm just wondering if there is any simple test to know. As far as I know, I don't really think so, but just wondering.

Any slightly different characteristics or anything?

Thanks,
Chris

[Aspectus]

i don't know if it aplyes to 304 and 316, but the higer grade less charbon added.
Less carbon less magnetic conduction.
So if magnet does not stick to it it is likely higher grade than other.
Hope it makes sense to you.

[mc19]

Use a magnet and you'll find that the 316 is less magnetic. 316 will not support the magnets weight.

[dkmacmillan]

[johnh]

[johnh]

[dkmacmillan]

[dkmacmillan]

[eco]

[mc19]

Both grades of stainless steel contain elements of Fe (Iron). Because iron reponds to effects of ferromagnatism, stainless steel is magnetic to a certain degree. You will find that 304 contain more Iron then 316, making for a stronger attraction to the magnetic field.

[pertyfly]