The difference:

1. Different degrees of corrosion resistance: 316 stainless steel contains Mo, which has better corrosion resistance than 304 stainless steel in high temperature environment. Therefore, in high temperature environment, engineers generally choose parts made of 316 material. 316 mainly reduces the Cr content and increases the Ni content and increases the Mo2%~3%. Therefore, its corrosion resistance is stronger than that of 304, and it is suitable for use in chemical, seawater and other environments.
2. According to the grades, the materials are different: 304 stainless steel corresponds to the Chinese grade 0Cr18Ni9, and 316 stainless steel corresponds to the Chinese grade 0Cr17Ni12Mo2.
3. The price is different: the cost of 316 is also higher than that of 304. Generally, 316 is used in places with higher requirements to replace 304.
Extended information:

316 stainless steel is an austenitic stainless steel. Due to the addition of Mo element, its corrosion resistance and high temperature strength are greatly improved. The high temperature resistance can reach 1200-1300 degrees, and it can be used under harsh conditions.

The main uses are heat exchangers for pulp and paper equipment, dyeing equipment, film processing equipment, pipelines, and exterior materials for buildings in coastal areas. In 2013, it was also used in the field of solenoid valves, mainly used for shells, clamps, balls, valve bodies, valve seats, nuts, valve stems, etc.

304 stainless steel is a common material in stainless steel, with a density of 7.93 g/cm3, also known as 18/8 stainless steel in the industry. High temperature resistance of 800 ℃, has the characteristics of good processing performance and high toughness, and is widely used in industry, furniture decoration industry and food and medical industry.

Common labeling methods on the market include 0Cr18Ni9 and SUS304, of which 0Cr18Ni9 generally means national standard production, 304 generally means ASTM standard production, and SUS 304 means Japanese standard production.

304 is a general purpose stainless steel that is widely used to make equipment and parts that require a good combination of properties (corrosion resistance and formability). In order to maintain the inherent corrosion resistance of stainless steel, the steel must contain more than 18% chromium and more than 8% nickel. 304 stainless steel is a grade of stainless steel produced according to the American ASTM standard.