F.A.Q.

Question:  

Are the Washers 304L or 316L?

Answer:

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

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 I used previously 18-8 extra thick washers without a problem. Is 304 a more brittle metal? Some sites say 18-8 is 304. I want to make sure the strength is the same as I used previously before I order them. Thanks

Answer:

18-8 and 304 are basically the same and for the average person it may not matter that much. 304 and 316 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.

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Please call or email with any questions 

Thomas Hoffman

209-517-3150

extsw2@gmail.com