Guide / Stainless Machining

Machining Stainless 304 vs 316

Cutting the two most common stainless grades

Comparison

Property304316
Tensile515 MPa485 MPa
Work HardensYes - highYes - very high
SFM (Carbide)250-400200-350
Chip Load0.04-0.10mm0.03-0.08mm

Key Tips

Always stay in cut - never dwell. Use sharp insert geometries (positive rake). Climb milling. High pressure coolant 40+ bar.