AISI 316, 316L and 316Ti Stainless Steel Balls for Valves and Pumps
REDHILL supplies AISI 316, 316L and 316Ti stainless steel balls for valves, pumps, dispensers and precision mechanisms. These austenitic grades combine toughness with corrosion resistance. In addition, their molybdenum content generally improves resistance to pitting compared with 304.
Grades and Material References
Use the following common references to specify your material:
- AISI 316: 1.4401 / X5CrNiMo17-12-2; the standard molybdenum-containing grade.
- AISI 316L: 1.4404 / X2CrNiMo17-12-2; the low-carbon version, with carbon ≤0.03%.
- AISI 316Ti: 1.4571 / X6CrNiMoTi17-12-2; a titanium-stabilized grade for suitable elevated-temperature duties.
Therefore, specify the exact grade and material standard when ordering.
Key Technical Specifications
- AISI 316 Alloy Content: Chromium 16–18%, nickel 10–14%, molybdenum 2–3%, carbon ≤0.08%.
- Structure: Austenitic stainless steel.
- Hardness: Typically 25–39 HRC for cold-worked balls; confirm for the specified grade, size and condition.
- Density: Approximately 8.0 g/cm³.
- Magnetic Properties: Generally non-magnetic when annealed; cold working can increase the magnetic response.
Cold working increases strength and hardness. However, heat treatment does not harden these grades. Therefore, define the hardness and magnetic requirements for the finished ball.
Corrosion Resistance
These steels suit many process fluids and industrial environments. However, seawater and chlorides can still cause pitting and crevice corrosion. Therefore, match the grade to the fluid, temperature, flow and cleaning conditions.
Applications of AISI 316 Stainless Steel Balls
For example, common uses include:
- Valves and Pumps: Check balls for dispensers, metering pumps and flow controls.
- Food and Beverage Equipment: Parts for liquid handling and dispensing.
- Medical and Laboratory Devices: Flow control and instrument components.
- Chemical Processing Equipment: Ball components for compatible process fluids.
- Marine Instruments: Mechanical contact and locating parts.
Available Grades and Sizes
- Precision Grades: G40–G500.
- Diameters: 0.5–150.0 mm.
Available combinations depend on diameter, grade and material condition. Also include any special surface or inspection requirements with your inquiry.
Finally, send us your ball size, steel grade, quantity and working conditions. We can then confirm suitable options, availability and lead time.