The table below summarizes the key properties and typical applications of common AISI stainless steel grades.
| AISI grade | Properties | Applications |
|---|---|---|
| 304 | The most common stainless steel grade. Provides high oxidation resistance up to 450 °C. | Food, kitchens, kitchenware, household goods, automotive and medical industries, sink manufacturing. |
| 304L | Low-carbon version of AISI 304. | Suitable for storage tanks and boilers. Generally used at temperatures below 400 °C. |
| 316 | Very high strength thanks to its molybdenum content. Provides high oxidation resistance up to 650 °C. | Chemical, petrochemical and food industries. Steam boilers, kitchens and facade cladding. |
| 316L | Low-carbon version of AISI 316, with high oxidation resistance up to 450 °C. | Chemical, petrochemical and food industries; marine and industrial atmospheres. |
| 316Ti | Titanium-stabilized, so it is not susceptible to intergranular corrosion. Can be used continuously at temperatures up to 650 °C. | Chemical, petrochemical, coal, cellulose, textile, resin and rubber industries. |
| 309/309S | High oxidation resistance at temperatures up to 1050 °C. Resists sulfurous and nitrogenous gases. Good tensile strength and creep properties. | Furnace construction, heaters, carburizing boxes and other high-temperature equipment. |
| 310/310S | Similar to AISI 304 but designed for high temperatures; usable up to 1200 °C. Excellent weldability and corrosion resistance. | Furnace construction, steam boilers, oil plants and pipelines. |
| 321 | Titanium-stabilized, so it is not susceptible to intergranular corrosion. Can be used continuously at temperatures up to 1000 °C. Very good weldability with all methods except gas welding. | Food, beverage and photographic industries; also the chemical industry. |
| 430 | The basic ferritic stainless steel grade, with adequate corrosion resistance. | Automotive industry, kitchen appliances and decorative applications. |
| 430Ti | Titanium-stabilized, so it is not susceptible to intergranular corrosion. Good thermal conductivity and high-temperature resistance. Moderate weldability. | Hot-water systems, exhaust pipes and washing machines. |