We conclude that in 2025 the average market price of ASTM 316 stainless steel plate hovers between US $2,200 and US $2,800 per metric ton, depending on region and order size. At Luokaiwei, we offer 100 % factory-direct pricing, rapid delivery from stock, and full customization services to meet your precise requirements.
1. Introduction & Key Findings
We’ve monitored raw-material costs, supply-chain shifts, and regional demand to establish that 316 stainless steel plate pricing in 2025 generally ranges from US $2,200–2,800/ton. Volatility remains moderate—driven by nickel and molybdenum feedstock pricing—while end-user demand in chemical, marine, and food-processing sectors continues robust growth.
2. What Is ASTM 316 Stainless Steel?
ASTM A240/A240M defines the requirements for “Type 316” stainless steel plate and sheet, a austenitic alloy enriched with molybdenum for superior pitting and crevice corrosion resistance in chloride-rich environments. Its popularity stems from an optimal balance of mechanical strength, weldability, and hygiene compliance.
3. Chemical Composition & Grade Variants
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Standard 316: ~16–18 % Cr, 10–14 % Ni, 2–3 % Mo, <0.08 % C
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316L (Low-Carbon): ≤0.03 % C to minimize sensitization during welding
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316H (High-Carbon): 0.04–0.10 % C for elevated-temperature strength
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Super-Duplex 316: Enhanced nitrogen and molybdenum content for extreme environments
4. Mechanical Properties & Corrosion Resistance
Typical mechanical values for 316 plate (2 mm–50 mm thickness):
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Yield strength: ≥205 MPa
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Tensile strength: ≥515 MPa
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Elongation: ≥40 % in 50 mm
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Impact resistance: Excellent down to –50 °C
The addition of molybdenum confers pitting resistance dues-to-chloride up to 0.1 % Cl–, making it ideal for marine and chemical service.
5. Manufacturing & Finishing Processes
We supply plates produced via:
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Hot rolling to required thickness
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Annealing at 1,015–1,120 °C followed by rapid quenching
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Pickling and passivation to optimize corrosion resistance
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Surface finishes: 2B (mill), BA (bright annealed), No. 4 (brushed), and mirror polish
6. Global Market Trends in 2025
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East Asia: Continued expansion in petrochemical capacity driving demand
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North America: Steady replacement market in food and pharmaceutical
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Europe: Emphasis on sustainable manufacturing and circular economy
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India: Rising domestic stainless-steel production moderating import needs
7. Global Price Comparison Table
| Region | 2025 Price (US $/ton) | Currency & Notes |
|---|---|---|
| USA | 2,500–2,800 | FOB Gulf Coast ports |
| Europe (EU) | 2,400–2,700 | EXW major mills (EUR 2,200–2,500/ton) |
| China | 2,200–2,500 | CIF Shanghai |
| India | 2,300–2,600 | Local Delhi delivery (INR 185,000–210,000) |
| Middle East | 2,350–2,650 | FCA Jebel Ali |
8. Factors Influencing ASTM 316 Plate Prices
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Nickel & molybdenum feedstock costs: Nickel accounts for ~10–14 % of alloy and is price-sensitive.
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Energy & logistics: Roll-mill energy costs, ocean freight rates, and carbon-pricing schemes.
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Environmental regulations: Stricter emissions standards can raise production cost.
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Currency fluctuations: USD vs. EUR, CNY, INR rates impact local pricing.
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Order quantity & lead time: Bulk and repeat orders benefit from tiered discounts.
9. Advantages of 316 Stainless Steel Plate
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Outstanding pitting and crevice corrosion resistance
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Excellent formability and weldability—no post-weld annealing needed for 316L
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Robust mechanical performance across –50 °C to +550 °C
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Long service life reduces total cost of ownership
10. Typical Applications
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Oil & gas: Heat-exchanger tubes, chemical process vessels
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Marine: Ship fittings, offshore platforms
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Food & beverage: Brewing tanks, hygienic processing lines
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Pharmaceutical: Clean-room panels, sterilization equipment
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Architecture: Decorative façades, handrails
11. Customization & Value-Added Services
At Luokaiwei, we provide:
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Precision cutting (laser, plasma) to ±0.1 mm
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Customized edge treatments (bevel, square, rounded)
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Pre-fabrication: Bending, punching, welding subassemblies
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Surface enhancements: Electropolishing, high-luster mirror finish
12. Why Choose Luokaiwei as Your Supplier
We are a China-based manufacturer with over 15 years of stainless-steel expertise. Our advantages include:
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100 % factory-direct pricing—no middle-man markups
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Extensive inventory: Over 5,000 tons of ready stock for fast shipment
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Global logistics network: Reliable delivery to over 50 countries
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Technical support: In-house metallurgists for specification advising
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Custom solutions: Tailored to your dimensional and certification needs
13. Quality Assurance & Certifications
We adhere to international standards:
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ISO 9001 Quality Management
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ISO 14001 Environmental Management
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ISO 45001 Occupational Health & Safety
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PED (Pressure Equipment Directive) for Europe
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3.1 B material test reports per EN 10204
14. Inventory & Lead Times
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Standard sizes (2–50 mm): Available from stock, delivery in 7–10 days
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Non-standard: Production lead time 15–20 days
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Express services: 3–5 days for urgent small orders
15. Sustainability & Recycling Considerations
316 stainless steel is 100 % recyclable. Scrap content in new plates often exceeds 60 %, reducing carbon footprint and supporting circular manufacturing.
Five FAQs
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What is the minimum order quantity for custom 316 stainless steel plate?
We accept orders starting from 500 kg. For quantities above 5 tons, competitive bulk pricing applies. -
Can you provide food-grade certification for 316L plates?
Yes, we supply FDA-compliant test certificates and material traceability documentation. -
How does 316 compare with 304 stainless steel in price and performance?
316 carries ~15–20 % premium over 304 due to molybdenum addition, but offers markedly better chloride resistance. -
Are your plates pre-passivated?
Our standard plates undergo nitric-acid passivation per ASTM A967 to ensure optimal corrosion resistance out of the box. -
What payment and logistics terms do you offer?
We accept T/T, L/C at sight, and D/P. We ship CIF, FOB, EXW, or DAP per customer preference, leveraging our global freight partnerships.