Valve Materials Guide

SS304

Composition (typical): ~18% Cr, ~8% Ni; C ≤ 0.08%. Balanced austenitic stainless steel.

Properties: Good general corrosion resistance; workable; not hardened by heat treatment.

Use-cases: Water, food & beverage, utilities, low chloride environments.

Notes: For higher chlorides/temperature, prefer SS316/316L.

SS316

Composition: 16–18% Cr, 10–14% Ni, 2–3% Mo; C ≤ 0.08%.

Properties: Improved pitting/crevice resistance vs 304; better at elevated temps.

Use-cases: Seawater splash, brine, mild acids, chemical processing.

Notes: For welded systems, consider SS316L to minimize sensitization.

SS316L

Composition: Similar to SS316 with lower carbon (≤ 0.03%).

Properties: Better weldability; reduced intergranular corrosion risk.

Use-cases: Welded piping systems, pharma/food utilities, CIP/SIP.

SS904L

Composition: High Ni (23–28%), Cr (19–23%), Mo (4–5%), Cu (1–2%).

Properties: Excellent chloride SCC resistance; high pitting resistance.

Use-cases: Seawater, phosphoric acid, fertilizer, high chloride chemicals.

Carbon Steel (CS) / WCB

WCB: Cast carbon steel (ASTM A216 WCB) with Mn and Si; robust mechanical strength.

Properties: Good strength; requires corrosion control (coatings, inhibitors, lining).

Use-cases: Steam, oil & gas (non-corrosive media), utilities; Class 150/300.

Brass

Composition: Copper-Zinc alloy; e.g., C83600 ~Cu 83, Sn 7, Pb 7, Zn 3.

Properties: Easy machining; good for potable water and compressed air.

Use-cases: Water distribution, air service, instrumentation. Avoid ammonia/H2S.

Duplex (brief)

Composition: Balanced ferrite/austenite; Cr ~22%, Ni 5–6%, Mo ~3%; N additions.

Properties: High strength; excellent chloride stress corrosion cracking resistance.

Use-cases: Seawater, pulp & paper, oil & gas produced water.

Material Selection Quick Table

Material Selection Consultation