Grade 302 stainless steel is an alloy that, in addition to containing similar quantities of chromium and nickel to grade 304 (18% and 8% respectively), also contains higher carbon levels. This structure is achieved via heat treatment at very high temperatures followed by quenching—a rapid cooling process locking the structural characteristics in place. 316 Stainless Steel. The key difference is that 316 stainless steel incorporates about 2 to 3 percent molybdenum. It has almost the same physical and mechanical properties as 304 stainless steel, and contains a similar material make-up. Stainless steel is famous for its corrosion resistance, fire and heat resistance, hygiene, and high strength-to-weight properties. 304, 316 and 316L stainless steel formulas are austenitic, a term classifying the steel’s crystalline structure. Type 304 alloys are all modications of the 18% chromium, 8% nickel austenitic alloy. It is often used in fast moving marine environments, as well as in food production and beer brewing. Stainless steel 316 is austenitic and is one of the most corrosion-resistant varieties that you can find among standard stainless steels. When we talk about stainless steels is important to know the differences between the two most commonly used types 304 and 201, each one has its own chemical composition as well as advantages and disadvantages, beside specific characteristics as hardness, corrosion resistance, welding, and appearance among others, each of these features is what makes each type ideal for some projects. 303 is a non-magnetic austenitic stainless steel that contains 18% chromium and 8% nickel. Variations in magnetic permeability are mainly due to factors such as martensitic formation and atomic lattice straining. For an example see this article on stainless steel 304 and 316. Type 316 stainless steel is an austenitic chromium-nickel stainless and heat-resisting steel with superior corrosion resistance as compared to other chromium-nickel steels when exposed to many types of chemical corrodents such as sea water, brine solutions, and the like. Stainless Steel Grades: 303 – 304 – 420 – 440 – 440C . Type 304, with it’s chromium-nickel content and low carbon, is the most versatile and widely used of the austenitic stainless steels. Often sold in strip and wire forms, grade 302 stainless steel is primarily used … 304 vs. 316 vs. 316L stainless steel properties. 303 Stainless Steel. Grade 304 steels attain quite strong magnetic response following substantial cold working, while grades 310 and 316 will remain non-responsive to a magnet in most cases. 316 grade is the second-most common form of stainless steel.