FAQ
How machinable is 316 stainless steel?
316 is classed as moderately difficult to machine, rated roughly 36% relative to free-machining B1112 steel. It work-hardens rapidly and has low thermal conductivity, so heat concentrates at the cutting edge rather than dissipating into the chip. Stable results depend on rigid setups, sharp positive-rake tooling, uninterrupted feed and high-pressure coolant.
What is SUS316 and is it the same as 316 stainless steel?
SUS316 is the Japanese JIS designation for the same austenitic grade known as AISI 316 or EN 1.4401. The compositions are equivalent for most engineering purposes, though minor element ranges differ slightly between standards. Drawings specifying SUS316 can normally be quoted and produced against 316 stock, subject to certification requirements.
Why does 316 work-harden during machining, and how is it controlled?
The austenitic structure transforms partially to martensite under cutting pressure, producing a hardened layer ahead of the tool. If the tool dwells or rubs, that layer thickens and accelerates wear. Control comes from maintaining consistent chip load, avoiding tool dwell, taking positive cuts beneath the hardened layer, and replacing tooling on schedule.
What tolerances can be held on machined 316 stainless steel parts?
With controlled process parameters and appropriate fixturing, ShvaveyMetal routinely holds tight tolerances on 316 components. Achievable precision depends on feature geometry, wall thickness and part size rather than on the alloy alone. Because 316 generates heat during cutting, thermal management and inspection under stable conditions are essential for repeatable dimensional results.
What industries use machined 316 stainless steel components?
316 is specified where chloride and chemical resistance matter: medical devices, pharmaceutical and food processing equipment, marine hardware, and laboratory and process instrumentation. Its molybdenum content gives markedly better pitting resistance than 304, which is why it is the default choice for wetted parts and sterilisable assemblies.
Why Machine 316 Stainless Steel at ShvaveyMetal
ShvaveyMetal applies CNC machining workflows optimized for austenitic stainless steels, supported by controlled tooling and inspection processes.
This approach ensures that CNC machined 316 stainless steel components meet defined dimensional, surface, and functional requirements across prototype and production programs.