18 Ga Stainless Steel Polished Sheet 316

Introduction to Stainless Steel Polished Sheet 316

Stainless steel polished sheet 316 is a high-performance material renowned for its exceptional corrosion resistance, durability, and elegant finish. As part of the 300-series austenitic stainless steels, it contains 16–18% chromium, 10–14% nickel, and 2–3% molybdenum, making it ideal for harsh environments and decorative applications. This product page explores its technical specifications, mechanical properties, polishing processes, and why it outperforms other grades like 304 or 310.

Key Benefits:

• Superior resistance to pitting, crevice corrosion, and chlorides.
• Stunning mirror-like finish for architectural, automotive, and hospitality industries.
• Easy maintenance and long lifespan.

Discover how ​polished stainless steel sheet 316 can elevate your projects with unmatched quality and aesthetics.

​Technical Specifications & Manufacturing Attributes

Compare hot rolled and cold rolled ​polished stainless steel sheet 316 specifications in the table below:

​Mechanical Properties & Performance Deep Dive

​1. Tensile Strength & Bending Strength

Tensile Strength: Ranging from 520 to 700 MPa, ​polished stainless steel sheet 316 ensures robust performance in high-stress applications like offshore platforms or heavy machinery. Its ductility prevents brittle failure under sudden loads.

Bending Strength: With 400–600 MPa, this material maintains structural integrity during repeated bending, making it suitable for automotive body panels, elevator doors, or aerospace components. The high nickel content enhances formability and reduces springback.

​2. Weight Calculation Guide

Determining the weight of ​stainless steel polished sheet 316 is crucial for cost estimation and logistics planning. Use the formula:
Weight (kg/m2)=Conversion FactorDensity×Thickness​
Density = 8050 kg/m³, Conversion Factor = 10⁶ mm²/m².
Example: A 1.5mm-thick cold rolled sheet weighs approximately 12.08 kg/m².

​3. Rust Resistance Mechanism

The corrosion resistance of ​polished stainless steel sheet 316 originates from its passive chromium oxide layer (Cr₂O₃) and molybdenum addition. Molybdenum enhances pitting resistance by forming a stable nitride layer in chlorides. However, rust can occur under:

• ​Extreme pH Levels: Exposure to concentrated acids or alkalines.
• ​High-Temperature Oxidation: Above 1000°C, even with polishing.
• ​Mechanical Damage: Scratches or cuts that expose bare metal.

Prevention Strategies:

• Regular cleaning with pH-neutral detergents.
• Avoiding contact with bleach or corrosive chemicals.
• Applying protective coatings for decorative elements.

​4. Identification & Certification

Proper identification ensures material traceability. Methods include:

• ​Grade Marking: “316” or “X6CrNiMo16-12” stamped on sheets.
• ​Chemical Analysis: Spectroscopy verifies chromium, nickel, and molybdenum levels.
• ​Hardness Testing: Rockwell B scale confirms compliance with polished finish standards.
• ​Certifications: ISO 9001, ASTM A240, and REACH certifications guarantee quality.

​Polishing Processes: From Rough to Mirror Finish

How to Polish Stainless Steel Sheet 316?
Polishing transforms raw sheets into glossy, reflective surfaces. Our process involves:

1. ​Hot Rolling: Heating to 1100°C and rolling to achieve uniform thickness.
2. ​Annealing: Heating at 1050°C to relieve internal stresses and improve machinability.
3. ​Cold Rolling: Precision rolling to achieve tight tolerances and smooth surfaces.
4. ​Polishing:
   • ​Mechanical Polishing: Using abrasive belts (from #400 to #2000 grit) for a matte finish.
   • ​Electrochemical Polishing: For mirror-like finishes (Ra ≤ 0.1 μm) in sensitive industries.

Key Advantages:

• Enhanced aesthetic appeal for architectural designs.
• Reduced friction in sliding components.
• Improved hygiene in food-processing equipment.

​Applications Across Industries

• ​Architecture: Facades, handrails, and decorative cladding.
• ​Marine: Boat hulls, propellers, and saltwater-resistant piping.
• ​Food & Beverage: Sanitary equipment, countertops, and conveyor systems.
• ​Automotive: Car bodies, exhaust systems, and interior trim.
• ​Energy: Solar panels, wind turbine casings, and nuclear reactor components.

​Why Choose Our Stainless Steel Polished Sheet 316?

1. ​Superior Quality Control: Each sheet undergoes 100% visual inspection and hardness testing.
2. ​Customization Options: Tailored polishing grades, sizes, and certifications (e.g., FDA, marine-grade).
3. ​Competitive Pricing: Bulk discounts and nationwide distribution networks.
4. ​Sustainable Practices: Eco-friendly production and 100% recyclable materials.
5. ​Expert Support: Technical guidance and after-sales service for complex projects.

​Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: How does polished stainless steel sheet 316 differ from 304?
A: Grade 316 contains molybdenum, enhancing corrosion resistance in chlorides and acids. It’s ideal for marine or chemical environments.

Q: Can polished stainless steel sheet 316 be welded?
A: Yes, but use low-carbon electrodes to avoid sensitization. Post-welding annealing is recommended.

Q: What’s the maximum thickness for cold rolled polished sheet 316?
A: Typically 2mm, but custom orders up to 5mm are available.

Q: How to restore shine to scratched polished stainless steel?
A: Use mild abrasives (e.g., #2000 grit) and polish with a cloth soaked in vinegar-water solution.

​Conclusion

Stainless steel polished sheet 316 is the pinnacle of durability, aesthetics, and functionality. Whether you need mirror-finished panels for luxury buildings or corrosion-resistant sheets for offshore oil rigs, our product delivers unmatched performance. Partner with us to leverage our technical expertise, quality assurance, and innovative solutions for your next project.