ASTM A240 Type 316H Stainless Steel Sheet & Plate
What is ASTM A240 Type 316H Stainless Steel Sheet and Plate?
As a professional stainless steel supplier, SHH STEEL is pleased to present ASTM A240 Type 316H Stainless Steel Sheet and Plate. Also known as UNS S31609, this high-carbon version of Type 316 is specifically developed for continuous high-temperature service where enhanced creep resistance is required.
Type 316H contains 2.00–3.00% molybdenum for improved resistance to pitting and crevice corrosion, combined with a controlled higher carbon content (0.04–0.10%) and a mandatory grain size of ASTM No. 7 or coarser. These features significantly improve high-temperature strength and long-term creep performance while retaining good corrosion resistance. SHH STEEL supplies ASTM A240 Type 316H in both sheet and plate forms, covering thicknesses from 0.5 mm to 100 mm, with widths up to 2500 mm and lengths up to 12000 mm. Custom sizes and surface finishes are available.
The material is typically delivered in the solution-annealed condition with full Mill Test Certificates (EN 10204 3.1), including grain size results. Whether for thin sheet fabrication or heavy plate applications, SHH STEEL provides consistent quality for demanding elevated-temperature projects worldwide.
Material Specification
ASTM A240 Type 316H stainless steel sheet and plate are manufactured in accordance with ASTM A240/A240M and ASME SA-240. This specification covers chromium-nickel-molybdenum stainless steel plate, sheet and strip for pressure vessels and general applications, including high-temperature service.
| Specification Element | Requirement | SHH STEEL Compliance |
|---|---|---|
| Primary Standard | ASTM A240 / ASME SA-240 Type 316H | Full compliance |
| Product Form | Sheet and Plate | Both available |
| Thickness Range | 0.5 mm – 100 mm | Custom sizes available |
| Width / Length | Up to 2500 mm / 12000 mm | Custom fabrication supported |
| Surface Finish | 2B, No.1, BA, HL | Multiple options |
| Heat Treatment Condition | Solution Annealed | Standard supply condition |
| Grain Size Requirement | ASTM No. 7 or coarser | Mandatory for Type 316H |
| Certification | EN 10204 3.1 / 3.2 | Available |
ASTM A240 Type 316H Chemical Composition
The chemical composition of ASTM A240 Type 316H is designed to provide enhanced high-temperature strength through controlled carbon content while maintaining good corrosion resistance.
| Element | Content (%) | Standard Limit | Role |
|---|---|---|---|
| Carbon (C) | 0.04 – 0.10 | 0.04 – 0.10 | Improves high-temperature creep strength |
| Manganese (Mn) | ≤ 2.00 | 2.00 max | Deoxidation and strength |
| Phosphorus (P) | ≤ 0.045 | 0.045 max | Impurity control |
| Sulfur (S) | ≤ 0.030 | 0.030 max | Cleanliness |
| Silicon (Si) | ≤ 0.75 | 0.75 max | Deoxidation |
| Chromium (Cr) | 16.00 – 18.00 | 16.00 – 18.00 | Corrosion and oxidation resistance |
| Nickel (Ni) | 10.00 – 14.00 | 10.00 – 14.00 | Austenite stability and toughness |
| Molybdenum (Mo) | 2.00 – 3.00 | 2.00 – 3.00 | Pitting and crevice corrosion resistance |
| Nitrogen (N) | ≤ 0.10 | 0.10 max | Strength contribution |
ASTM A240 Type 316H Mechanical Properties
In the solution-annealed condition, ASTM A240 Type 316H provides good room-temperature properties and superior high-temperature performance compared with lower-carbon grades.
| Property | Value | Test Method |
|---|---|---|
| Tensile Strength | ≥ 515 MPa (75 ksi) | ASTM A370 |
| Yield Strength (0.2% Offset) | ≥ 205 MPa (30 ksi) | ASTM A370 |
| Elongation in 50 mm | ≥ 40% | ASTM A370 |
| Hardness | ≤ 217 HB / ≤ 95 HRB | ASTM E10/E18 |
| Density | 8.00 g/cm³ | — |
| Grain Size | ASTM No. 7 or coarser | ASTM E112 |
Delivery Conditions
SHH STEEL supplies ASTM A240 Type 316H primarily in the solution-annealed and pickled condition. Detailed capabilities by surface finish are as follows:
2B Finish (Cold-rolled, annealed, pickled and skin-passed)
- Typical thickness range: 0.5 mm – 6.0 mm (most common 0.8 mm – 3.0 mm)
- Maximum width: up to 1500–2000 mm depending on thickness
- Preferred for applications requiring a smooth surface and good flatness.
No.1 Finish (Hot-rolled, annealed and pickled)
- Typical thickness range: 3.0 mm – 100 mm (most common 4.0 mm – 50 mm)
- Maximum width: up to 2000–2500 mm
- Standard finish for heavy plates used in high-temperature equipment and structural components.
Other Finishes
- BA (Bright Annealed): Available in thinner gauges
- HL (Hairline): Available on request
Protective PVC film can be applied on one or both sides. Precision cutting (plasma, laser or waterjet) and closer dimensional tolerances are available upon request.
Tolerances
Dimensional tolerances for ASTM A240 Type 316H sheet and plate follow ASTM A480/A480M.
- Thickness tolerances vary by product form and thickness. Cold-rolled sheet has tighter controls, while hot-rolled plate follows standard allowable deviations.
- Width tolerance is typically +6 mm / 0 mm.
- Length tolerance for cut-to-length material is normally +10 mm / 0 mm.
- Flatness is controlled according to ASTM A480; improved flatness can be supplied for precision fabrication.
- Edge conditions include mill edge, slit edge, sheared edge or plasma/laser cut edge according to customer preference.
Tighter tolerances can be arranged for special projects.
Weldability
ASTM A240 Type 316H can be welded using standard fusion welding processes such as GTAW (TIG), GMAW (MIG) and SMAW. Due to the higher carbon content, heat input should be controlled. Matching or slightly over-alloyed filler metals (e.g., ER316H or ER316) are recommended. Preheating is generally not required.
Post-weld cleaning and passivation are advised to restore optimum performance. In critical high-temperature applications, the effect of welding on creep properties should be carefully evaluated.
Equivalent Material Grades
| Grade | Standard | Designation |
|---|---|---|
| Type 316H | ASTM A240 / ASME SA-240 | — |
| UNS S31609 | Unified Numbering System | S31609 |
| 1.4919 | EN (reference) | High-carbon 316 equivalent |
| Related Chinese grades | GB/T series | High-carbon 17Cr-12Ni-2Mo types |
| SUS316H | JIS (reference) | — |
Applications
ASTM A240 Type 316H is selected for continuous high-temperature service where improved creep strength and good corrosion resistance are required. Typical applications are shown below with relevant keywords:
| Application Area | Typical Components / Uses (Keywords) |
|---|---|
| Chemical Processing | High-temperature reactors, process equipment – A240 316H Chemical Processing |
| Power Generation | Boiler components, heat exchangers, superheater supports – A240 316H Power |
| Petrochemical Industry | Furnace parts, high-temp piping, reformer components – A240 316H Petrochemical |
| Heat Treatment Equipment | Furnace hardware, radiant tubes, fixtures – A240 316H Heat Treatment |
| Industrial High-Temperature Service | Structural components under continuous elevated temperature – A240 316H Industrial |
| Pressure Vessels | High-temperature pressure-containing equipment – A240 316H Pressure Vessel |
Why Choose SHH STEEL
SHH STEEL maintains long-term strategic cooperation with major Chinese stainless steel mills and acts as a first-level (primary) agent for these mills. This direct partnership enables us to offer competitive pricing advantages, faster delivery times and consistent quality assurance that many intermediate traders cannot match.
All ASTM A240 Type 316H material is sourced from reputable Chinese mills under strict quality control, supplied with complete Mill Test Certificates (including grain size results), and supported by our professional export team. Customers benefit from reliable supply, short lead times, technical support and cost-effective solutions for high-temperature applications worldwide.
FAQ
- What is the main difference between 316, 316L and 316H?Type 316 has carbon ≤ 0.08%. Type 316L has carbon ≤ 0.030% for best intergranular corrosion resistance after welding. Type 316H has carbon 0.04–0.10% and mandatory grain size ASTM No. 7 or coarser for improved high-temperature creep strength.
- Why is grain size important for Type 316H?Coarser grain size (ASTM No. 7 or coarser) improves high-temperature creep and rupture strength, which is critical for continuous elevated-temperature service.
- What are the equivalent grades of ASTM A240 Type 316H?Common equivalents include UNS S31609, EN 1.4919 (reference), and related high-carbon 316 grades in Chinese and Japanese standards.
- What is the density of ASTM A240 Type 316H?Approximately 8.00 g/cm³.
- Is Type 316H suitable for welded high-temperature equipment?Yes, it can be welded, but heat input should be controlled and appropriate filler metals used. For critical creep applications, the impact of welding should be evaluated.
Conclusion
ASTM A240 Type 316H Stainless Steel Sheet and Plate from SHH STEEL deliver enhanced high-temperature creep strength and reliable corrosion resistance through controlled higher carbon content and mandatory grain size requirements. With strict quality control, flexible sizing options, competitive pricing through direct mill partnerships and professional global export service, we provide trusted solutions for continuous elevated-temperature applications worldwide.
Contact SHH STEEL today for your ASTM A240 Type 316H requirements.
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