Surface Finishing for Stainless Steel 316

Surface finishing of 316 stainless is critical for maintaining its superior corrosion resistance. Electropolish is the preferred finish for medical and pharmaceutical applications.

Recommended Machining Parameters

ParameterValue
Achievable Tolerances±0.01 mm (finished)
Surface FinishRa 0.05-3.2 μm
Cutting SpeedN/A
Feed RateN/A
Tooling RecommendationsN/A — surface finishing process

Expert Machining Tips

1

Electropolish standard for medical/pharma

2

Passivation as minimum for marine applications

3

Ra < 0.4μm typically required for pharma

4

Document finish specification on drawings

Common Parts Made

Electropolished pharmaceutical vessels

Passivated marine components

Mirror-finished surgical instruments

Machining Challenges

  • Electropolish parameters differ from 304
  • Expensive finishing process
  • Must verify molybdenum not depleted at surface

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