Stainless steel banding is an accessory that maintains the position of materials, especially during transportation. The placement of the banding is on items with very sharp edges which, could result in injury. The tensile strength is crucial to consider when transporting bulky materials. Stainless steel has a massive amount of tensile strength than other alternatives.
The strength makes it difficult to break when carrying heavy materials. It will even hold out when exposed to UV radiation or harsh weather. There are different types of stainless steel. Each stainless steel grade contains a different metal combination; hence, they have different roles. Read more to discover the better alternative between 304 and 316 stainless steel banding.
304
It is the most commonly used type and is less expensive than the 316. It is used for general purposes and can be spotted even in households. It has high nickel content, therefore, making it less corrosive. It also provides excellent strength and resistance to oxidation.
While it has high corrosion resistance, it is not so durable. It is has a wide range of applications. These include; making household appliances, railings, springs, plumbing appliances, and chemical containers. 304 stainless steel banding is used on heat tracer pipes to prevent them from freezing.
316
The 316 type has the highest nickel content making it have the highest corrosion resistance. It also increases strength and resistance to very high temperatures, chemicals, and solvents. It makes the most expensive bandings. It has a notable amount of molybdenum which makes the steel fight against corrosion and withstand being in chlorine-filled and saline environments. Other alloys included are; copper, chromium, aluminum, etc., in the 316 stainless steel banding, making it the best type of steel. The 316 banding is used for making medical equipment, signs, refinery devices, and refrigerative purposes.
Which is better?
Both options are great; however, depending on the purpose, one type can be better than the other and vice versa. For instance:
Grade 304 is the better alternative
- 1. It is more affordable than 316 stainless steel.
- 2. It has better formability. The addition of molybdenum in 316 may cause unfavorable outcomes on formability.
Grade 316 is the better alternative
- 1. It has stronger and harder qualities than 304 stainless steel.
- 2. It is more corrosive-resistant than the 316 stainless steel.
- 3. There are no negative effects when exposed to water.
Stainless steel banding is best and secure when transporting bulky loads of materials. However, even though the stainless steel grades have similar components, each type has a different metal combination hence, different qualities. Whatever is important to you, be it strength, durability, affordability, or corrosive resistance, we have all options available for your needs. Contact us for more information about our offers.
