316H vs 316L
These two grades are listed as equivalents of each other: their chemistry windows overlap and they serve the same applications. They are not always identical — check the differences below before substituting, especially in certified designs.
316H
Stainless Steel
316H is the high-carbon variant of 316, specified where creep strength is required in high-temperature pressure equipment that also sees corrosive process media. The carbon window 0.04–0.10% guarantees elevated-temperature strength values in the design codes.
Standards: DIN 1.4401 · AISI 316H · JIS SUS316 · GB 07Cr17Ni12Mo2
316L
Stainless Steel
316L is the low-carbon version of 316 and the most specified molybdenum-bearing stainless for welded equipment. It combines chloride pitting resistance with freedom from weld sensitisation.
Standards: DIN 1.4404 · AISI 316L · JIS SUS316L · GB 022Cr17Ni12Mo2
Chemical composition compared (%)
| Element | 316H | 316L |
|---|---|---|
| C | 0.04–0.10 | ≤0.030 |
| Si | ≤0.75 | ≤0.75 |
| Mn | ≤2.00 | ≤2.00 |
| P | ≤0.045 | ≤0.045 |
| S | ≤0.030 | ≤0.030 |
| Cr | 16.00–18.00 | 16.00–18.00 |
| Ni | 10.00–14.00 | 10.00–14.00 |
| Mo | 2.00–3.00 | 2.00–3.00 |
| N | — | ≤0.10 |
Properties compared
| Property | 316H | 316L |
|---|---|---|
| Delivery condition | Annealed | Annealed |
| Hardness | ≤217 HB (annealed) | ≤217 HB (annealed) |
| Tensile strength | 515–690 MPa | 485–690 MPa |
| Density | 7.90 g/cm³ | 7.90 g/cm³ |
| Creep service | Rated for pressure service above ~525 °C | — |
| Yield strength | — | ≥170 MPa |
Sourcing either grade?
Nasteel stocks both families from Shenzhen with EN 10204 3.1 mill certificates by heat number.
Ask for a quotationSee full data sheets: 316H · 316L. Substitution decisions for certified parts stay with the design authority.