316 Stainless Steel Mesh

Product Description:

316 stainless steel mesh is a woven or welded mesh made from AISI 316 austenitic stainless steel, renowned for its superior corrosion resistance, especially in harsh chemical and marine environments. It is the go-to choice when standard 304 stainless steel isn’t resistant enough. 

 Key Features of 316 Stainless Steel Mesh: 

 Material Composition (UNS S31600 / AISI 316) 

– Chromium (16-18%) → Provides oxidation & rust resistance. 

– Nickel (10-14%) → Enhances ductility and toughness. 

– Molybdenum (2-3%) ⭐ Key Advantage! → Boosts resistance to chlorides, acids, and pitting corrosion. 

– Carbon (≤0.08%) → Low carbon improves weldability (316L variant has even lower carbon). 

– Iron (Balance) → Maintains structural strength. 

Corrosion Resistance (Best in Class for Common Stainless Steels) 

✔ Excellent in seawater & salt spray (marine applications). 

✔ Resists sulfuric, phosphoric, and acetic acids (chemical processing). 

✔ Performs well in chloride-rich environments (unlike 304). 

✔ Better than 904L in some cases (but 904L excels in extreme acids). 

Temperature Resistance 

– Continuous Use: Up to 870°C (1600°F) (similar to 304). 

– Not for extreme heat (use 310, 330, or Inconel above 900°C). 

Mesh Specifications: 

– Weave Types: 

  – Plain Weave (most common for filtration). 

  – Twill Weave (stronger, smoother surface). 

  – Dutch Weave (ultra-fine filtration). 

  – Welded Mesh (rigid, structural use). 

– Mesh Sizes: From ultra-fine (400+ mesh) to coarse (1/4″ openings). 

– Wire Diameter: Adjustable for strength vs. airflow (e.g., thin wires for filters, thick for screens). 

 Top Applications of 316 Stainless Steel Mesh: 

 Marine & Offshore 

– Saltwater filtration, boat screens, underwater components. 

– Desalination plants & offshore oil rigs. 

 Chemical & Pharmaceutical 

– Acid-resistant filters, reactor screens, pharmaceutical sieves. 

– PPE equipment (breathing filters, chemical splash guards). 

 Food & Beverage Processing 

– Brewery filters, dairy processing, food-grade sieves. 

– FDA-compliant (non-reactive with food acids). 

 Medical & Surgical 

– Implantable mesh, sterilization trays, surgical screens. 

– Biocompatible (ISO 10993 certified in 316L form). 

 Architectural & Decorative 

– Balcony screens, façade cladding (coastal areas). 

– Art installations (rust-proof in humid climates). 

 316 vs. Other Stainless Steel Meshes: 

When to Choose 316 Mesh? 

– Marine, chemical, or acidic environments. 

– Long-term outdoor exposure (coastal areas). 

– When 304 isn’t corrosion-resistant enough. 

 When to Avoid 316? 

– Extreme heat (use 310/330). 

– Ultra-high acid resistance needed (904L is better). 

  Fabrication & Maintenance Tips: 

– Welding: Use 316L filler wire to prevent carbide precipitation. 

– Cleaning: Passivate with nitric acid to restore corrosion resistance. 

– Avoid Contamination: Keep away from carbon steel tools (prevents rust transfer). 

 Standards & Equivalent Grades: 

– UNS S31600 (Standard 316) 

– UNS S31603 (316L – Low Carbon, better for welding) 

– EN 1.4401 (316) / 1.4404 (316L) (European) 

– AISI 316 (Common U.S. designation) 

Final Conclusion: 

316 stainless steel mesh is the gold standard for corrosion resistance in marine, chemical, and medical applications. If you need long-lasting performance in harsh environments, this is the best balance of cost vs. durability. 

For even harsher conditions (e.g., sulfuric acid, seawater + heat), consider 904L. For extreme heat (furnaces, exhausts), 310 or 330 is better.