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Material Characteristics
Chemical composition differences: 304 flange's main component is 06Cr19Ni10, 316 flange's main component is 06Cr17Ni12Mo2. 316 flange added molybdenum (Mo) element, molybdenum can enhance the corrosion resistance and strength of the stainless steel, so that the 316 flange in the high-pressure environment to resist chemical corrosion and stress corrosion cracking ability is stronger.
Mechanical properties are different: the room temperature yield strength of 304 flanges is 205MPa, and the room temperature yield strength of 316 flanges is 210MPa. 316 flanges have a slightly higher yield strength, which means that it is less prone to plastic deformation when subjected to pressure, and it can withstand higher pressures while maintaining structural stability.
Application environment
High-temperature and high-pressure environments: 316 flanges are more advantageous in environments where high temperatures and high pressures exist at the same time. 316 flanges have better high-temperature resistance, maintain better mechanical properties and structural stability at high temperatures, and can withstand higher pressures without deformation, rupture and other problems. For example, in the oil cracking and other high-temperature and high-pressure chemical processes, 316 flanges are better than 304 flanges to ensure the safety and reliability of pipeline connections.
Strong corrosive high-pressure environment: when in the high-pressure environment of strong corrosive media, 316 flange due to the role of molybdenum elements, corrosion resistance is far better than 304 flange. For example, in the ocean engineering desalination system, seawater is highly corrosive and the system pressure is high, 316 flange can effectively resist seawater corrosion and maintain sealing performance and structural integrity under high pressure; while 304 flange in this environment may reduce the strength due to corrosion, affecting the performance of high-pressure resistance, leading to leakage and other safety issues.

Manufacturing process and size specifications
Influence of manufacturing process: both are basically similar in terms of manufacturing process, but 316 flanges may have higher requirements on manufacturing process due to high material cost and relatively difficult processing. Under the same level of manufacturing process, the quality and precision of 316 flange may be better, which helps to improve its sealing performance and overall performance under high pressure.
Size limitations: Generally speaking, the same size 304 flange and 316 flange, 316 flange can withstand a relatively higher pressure rating. However, in large diameter or special size flanges, 304 flanges may be limited in performance when reaching a certain pressure level due to material strength and other factors; while 316 flanges, with better material properties, can maintain better high-pressure resistance under larger size specifications.

FAQ

304 flange and 316 flange in the chemical composition of what is the difference?

304 flange main composition is 06Cr19Ni10, containing chromium 19%, containing nickel 9%; 316 flange main composition is 06Cr17Ni12Mo2, in addition to chromium, nickel, but also added 2% - 3% of molybdenum elements.
The mechanical properties of 304 flanges and 316 flanges are different?

the room temperature yield strength of 304 flanges is 205MPa, and that of 316 flanges is 210MPa. 316 flanges are slightly stronger, and are less susceptible to plastic deformation when subjected to pressure and stress.
304 flange and 316 flange high temperature resistance performance?

304 flange can generally withstand temperatures below 800 ℃; 316 flange can withstand higher temperatures, in the 1200 - 1300 ℃ or so can still maintain a good performance.