F.A.Q.

Question:  

What is the difference between 304L or 316L stainless washers?

304 offers good corrosion resistance in mild environments, like fresh water. Over time 304 will slowly get a dull looking finish.

316 offer much better corrosion resistance in extreme environments, like salt water or sulfuric acid. If you want your washers to have nice shiny look for a much longer time, use 316L Stainless steel

-------------------------------------------------------------------

What does the "L" stand for in "304L" and "316L"?

A washer described as "18-8" or just "304"would have a carbon content of about 0.08%. The "304L" and "316L" will limit the carbon content to about 2-3%. The more carbon the less the corrosion resistance. 

All of our Washers and Spacers are 304L or 316L (Low Carbon) 

--------------------------------------------------------------------

What is the Grade rating on 304L and 316L stainless washers?

304L and 316L have about a Grade 5 rating

-------------------------------------------------------------=---

18-8 Stainless steel has APPROXIMATELY (not exactly) 18% chromium and 8% nickel. In my experiences with manufacturers, if they are allowed to be off the 18-8 mixture, they take full advantage of that and try to put as little of the chromium and nickel in their products as possible as long as they can still classify it as "18-8".

We use 304L

304L Stainless steel has a MINIMUM amount of 18% chromium and 8% nickel, COMBINED with a MAXIMUM of 0.03% Carbon.

In my experience in the food industry, where I get to see close up, 18-8 vs 304L washers in harsh chemical washdown environments, I definitely notice a difference. I have noticed the 18-8 will corrode much more than the 304L Alloy.

-----------------------------------------------------------------------

Please call or email with any questions 

Thomas Hoffman

209-517-3150

extsw2@gmail.com