316, or 316L, is the second most commonly used stainless steel alloy in the stainless steel investment casting process.

316 stainless steel
Type 316 stainless steel is an austenitic stainless steel that differs from grade 304 by the addition of molybdenum, which increases its resistance to chemical corrosion and marine environments. 316 stainless steel alloy is ideal for cast components, especially for marine applications.

316L stainless steel
316L stainless steel is an extra low carbon version of 316, which is easy to remember because the L stands for "low". But even with the lower carbon content, 316L is very similar to 316 in almost every way. Costs are very similar, and both are durable, corrosion-resistant, and a good choice for high-stress situations.

Features of 316/316L Stainless Steel
Excellent corrosion resistance and strength properties
High creep strength, fracture stress and tensile strength at elevated temperatures
Resistant to rust, sodium and calcium brines
Annealed or heat treated between 1,900 – 2,100°F (1,038 to 1,149°C)
316(L) stainless steel casting process

The investment casting process has been around for thousands of years and can be used to make 316 or 316L stainless steel castings in different shapes. The process involves multiple steps:

Make molds from 3d files​​.
Fill the mold with wax to create the wax pattern, check and modify the pattern if there are any flaws.
Solder the wax pattern to form the assembly.
The wax is dipped into the ceramic slurry to form the shell.
Heat the ceramic casing to remove the wax.
Pour the molten shell.
Shelling, shot blasting or other surface treatments.
Jiachuancasting Stainless Steel Foundry has extensive experience in casting 316 stainless steel and 316L stainless steel for a variety of applications including marine hardware, marine fittings, exhaust manifolds, valves and pump parts, etc. As a leading stainless steel casting manufacturer in China, our company can customize 316 and 316L stainless steel castings in different sizes and shapes. In addition, we can also provide additional machining and surface treatment services according to customers' ideas. Feel free to contact us with any questions about 316 or 316L stainless steel castings!