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316 Stainless Steel Flat Washers

What are 316 stainless flat washers? 316 stainless steel flat washers are general-purpose round washers that spread a fastener's load and protect the surface, made from marine-grade 316 stainless. The added molybdenum resists salt and chloride corrosion, making them the choice for coastal, marine, and wash-down fastening.

Why choose 316 over 304 for flat washers?

316 stainless adds molybdenum, which gives it far better resistance to salt and chloride pitting than 304 or 18-8. It spreads clamping load over a wide area while keeping that corrosion resistance in the harshest environments, from docks and boats to pool decks and food-processing wash-down. Pair it with 316 stainless bolts and nuts so the whole joint shares the same protection. For general indoor and freshwater use, 304 is a more economical choice.

Why choose 316 stainless flat washers

  • Marine-grade corrosion resistance: molybdenum-alloyed for salt and chlorides.
  • General purpose: the everyday washer where corrosion is a concern.
  • Non-staining: will not rust-streak the mounting surface.
  • Match grade: pairs with 316 stainless hardware.

Common applications for 316 stainless flat washers

  • Marine, dock, and boat hardware
  • Coastal and saltwater exposure
  • Pool decks and chlorinated environments
  • Food-grade and wash-down equipment

For general freshwater use at lower cost, see 304 stainless flat washers, and browse every material on the main flat washers category.

316 Stainless 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.

Is 316 the same as A4 metric?

A4 is the metric grade comparable to 316. Both are molybdenum-alloyed marine-grade stainless.

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.