316 Stainless Steel Roll Forming Material Guide: Marine Grade, Coil Sizes & Applications

Stainless Steel 316 Roll Forming Material

1. Overview of 316 Stainless Steel in Roll Forming

316 stainless steel is a high-performance austenitic stainless steel known as marine-grade stainless steel. It contains molybdenum, which significantly improves corrosion resistance, especially in chloride and harsh environments.

In roll forming, 316 stainless steel is used where superior corrosion resistance is critical, such as marine applications, chemical processing, and coastal construction.

Compared to 304, 316 offers better resistance to saltwater, chemicals, and extreme environments, but at a higher cost.

2. Material Composition & Structure

316 stainless steel consists of:

Iron base metal
Chromium (~16–18%)
Nickel (~10–14%)
Molybdenum (~2–3%)

Structure

Austenitic stainless steel
Non-magnetic (annealed condition)
May become slightly magnetic after forming

3. Available Coil Specifications

Thickness Range

0.3mm – 5.0mm

Coil Width

600mm – 1500mm

Coil Weight

2 tons – 10 tons

Coil ID / OD

ID: 508mm / 610mm
OD: up to 1600mm

Tolerance

Tight thickness control
Excellent flatness

4. Mechanical Properties

Typical values:

Yield Strength: 200 – 500 MPa
Tensile Strength: 500 – 700 MPa
Elongation: 40% – 60%
Hardness: 150 – 200 HB

5. Surface Finishes

316 stainless steel is available in:

2B finish
BA (bright annealed)
No.4 brushed finish
Mirror finish
Embossed finishes

6. Common Roll Forming Applications

Marine components
Coastal building structures
Chemical processing equipment
Pharmaceutical equipment
Food processing (harsh environments)
Architectural cladding in coastal areas
Exhaust and piping systems

7. Advantages of 316 Stainless Steel

Superior corrosion resistance
Excellent resistance to saltwater and chlorides
Long lifespan in harsh environments
Hygienic and easy to clean
High strength and durability

8. Disadvantages / Limitations

Higher cost than 304 and 201
Work hardening during forming
Requires more precise tooling
Higher tool wear
Springback effects

9. Roll Forming Machine Considerations

Roll Tooling

Hardened rollers (D2 or carbide recommended)
High surface finish critical

Speed

8–25 m/min

Lubrication

Essential

Cutting

Flying shear or saw cutting
High-quality hardened blades required

Common Issues

Work hardening
Springback
Surface scratching

10. Common Problems in Production

Work hardening increases forming resistance
Springback affecting dimensional accuracy
Surface scratching on polished finishes
Tool wear
Edge cracking in tight bends

11. Pricing Guide

Typical global pricing:

Low: $3500–$4500 per ton
Medium: $4500–$6000 per ton
High: $6000–$9000+ per ton

Factors affecting price:

Molybdenum content
Nickel prices
Surface finish
Thickness

12. Comparison with Other Materials

316 vs 304 Stainless Steel

316 = better corrosion resistance
304 = lower cost

316 vs 201 Stainless Steel

316 = significantly better corrosion resistance
201 = much cheaper

316 vs Aluminum

316 = stronger and more durable
Aluminum = lighter

13. Best Industries Using 316 Stainless Steel

Marine and offshore
Chemical processing
Pharmaceutical manufacturing
Coastal construction
Food processing (aggressive environments)

14. How to Choose 316 Stainless Steel

Choose 316 When:

Marine or coastal environment
Chemical exposure
Long-term durability required
High corrosion resistance needed

Avoid When:

Budget is limited
Standard indoor applications (use 304 instead)

15. FAQ Section

What is 316 stainless steel?

A marine-grade stainless steel with molybdenum for enhanced corrosion resistance.

Is 316 better than 304?

Yes, in corrosive environments.

Can 316 be roll formed?

Yes, but requires proper setup.

Does 316 stainless steel rust?

Highly resistant, especially to saltwater.

Why is 316 more expensive?

Due to molybdenum and higher alloy content.

16. Machine Matcher Section

We supply roll forming machines for all material types including 316 stainless steel.

Custom-built machines to your profile
New machines built to specification
Global delivery available
UK and USA technical support

Contact:
Machine Matcher
Sales & Technical Team

Quick Specs

Thickness
0.3–5.0mm

Yield Strength
200–500 MPa

Coil Width
600–1500mm

Coil ID
508 / 610mm