316 Stainless Steel SAE Flat Washers
What are 316 stainless SAE flat washers? 316 stainless steel SAE flat washers are compact-pattern washers made from marine-grade 316 stainless that spread a fastener's load and protect the surface. The tight SAE fit suits automotive and machinery, while the molybdenum-alloyed 316 grade resists salt and chloride corrosion for coastal and marine use.
Why choose 316 for an SAE washer?
316 stainless adds molybdenum for far better resistance to salt and chloride pitting than 304, so a 316 SAE washer combines that marine-grade protection with the tight, space-saving SAE pattern. It suits automotive, marine, and machinery hardware where clearance is limited and corrosion is a concern, from boat fittings to coastal equipment. Pair it with 316 stainless bolts and nuts so the whole joint shares the same protection. For general freshwater use at lower cost, 304 or 18-8 is a more economical stainless choice.
Why choose 316 stainless SAE flat washers
- Marine-grade corrosion resistance: molybdenum-alloyed for salt and chlorides.
- Compact fit: SAE pattern suits tight clearances.
- Non-staining: will not rust-streak the mounting surface.
- Match grade: pairs with 316 stainless hardware.
Common applications for 316 stainless SAE washers
- Marine and boat hardware in tight clearances
- Coastal automotive and machinery
- Saltwater and chlorinated exposure
- Wash-down and food-grade equipment
For a wider marine washer, see 316 stainless flat washers, and browse every option on the main flat washers category.
316 Stainless SAE Flat Washers FAQ
Why choose 316 over 304?
316 adds molybdenum for much better resistance to salt and chloride pitting, making it the choice for coastal, marine, and wash-down use where 304 could corrode.
What is the difference from a USS washer?
The SAE pattern is smaller and thinner than USS for the same bolt, giving a tighter fit for automotive and tight-clearance work.
Should the washer match the bolt grade?
Yes. Pairing 316 washers with 316 bolts and nuts keeps the whole joint at the same corrosion resistance.