Molybdenum-bearing stainless from chemical plant, marine fittings, pharmaceutical and food equipment — worth more than 304 because of its higher nickel and its molybdenum.
Molybdenum-bearing stainless from chemical plant, marine fittings, pharmaceutical and food equipment — worth more than 304 because of its higher nickel and its molybdenum.
Grade 316 adds two to three per cent molybdenum to the 18/8 base and carries a little more nickel, giving better corrosion resistance. It is found in process vessels, heat exchangers, pumps, valves, marine hardware, pharmaceutical and dairy equipment, and in the 316L form in welded fabrications. Because its molybdenum is expensive and its nickel content is higher, 316 scrap sells at a premium to 304 and is kept strictly separate.
Only an analyser can reliably tell 316 from 304 — they look and behave alike — so the XRF gun is the sorting tool.
Stainless mills making 316 want 316 scrap because every tonne of it saves molybdenum and nickel additions. The buyers are the same mills as for 304; the sellers are demolition contractors, process-plant decommissioners and fabricators. A 316 lot mixed with 304 is paid as 304.
Code: 316 / 316L stainless scrap
The main importing countries for this grade — each links to the country page with its mills, smelters, price references and named firms.