A351 CF3M 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.
A351 CF3M
Stainless Steel
ASTM A351 CF3M is the cast equivalent of 316L — molybdenum for chloride resistance plus ≤0.03% carbon so welded castings stay sensitization-free without re-annealing. The premium default for chemical, marine and pharmaceutical cast valves and pumps.
Standards: DIN 1.4409 (GX2CrNiMo19-11-2) · AISI A351 CF3M · JIS SCS16A · GB ZG00Cr17Ni14Mo2 (near)
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 | A351 CF3M | 316L |
|---|---|---|
| C | ≤0.03 | ≤0.030 |
| Si | ≤1.50 | ≤0.75 |
| Mn | ≤1.50 | ≤2.00 |
| P | ≤0.040 | ≤0.045 |
| S | ≤0.040 | ≤0.030 |
| Cr | 17.00–21.00 | 16.00–18.00 |
| Ni | 9.00–13.00 | 10.00–14.00 |
| Mo | 2.00–3.00 | 2.00–3.00 |
| N | — | ≤0.10 |
Properties compared
| Property | A351 CF3M | 316L |
|---|---|---|
| Tensile strength | ≥485 MPa | 485–690 MPa |
| Yield strength | ≥205 MPa | ≥170 MPa |
| Elongation | ≥30% | — |
| Density | 7.90 g/cm³ | 7.90 g/cm³ |
| Delivery condition | — | Annealed |
| Hardness | — | ≤217 HB (annealed) |
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: A351 CF3M · 316L. Substitution decisions for certified parts stay with the design authority.