Stainless 316 or 303 for rubstrakes?

[gravygraham]

I've seen some stainless rubbing strakes which are 304 grade. Is this false economy and should I seek them out in 316? Any ideas?

http://www.tcschandlery.co.uk/10231/C-Quip-Rubbing-Strakes-3-4-.html

 

[colhel]

In my opinion fine, if you get any surface corrosion it can be easily rubbed off.
316 although a better material may show wear more, so cosmetically be not as good as 304.

 

[jonboy1]

Grade 316 is marine grade for external use.
Grade 304 is for internal use.

 

[Tranona]

304 is fine for that application. I have those strips to protect against chafe from warps etc. No problems with corrosion or staining.

 

[jfm]

304 is fine for that application. I have those strips to protect against chafe from warps etc. No problems with corrosion or staining.

+1
For some reason those D section strips seem only to be availalbe in 304 but I too have found them to be fine and not stain or rust

 

[kimhollamby]

We have some of the hollow section version from CQuip protecting the teak on Formanda - they are on their third season now and are fine despite quite a lot of movement on our mooring.

 

[gravygraham]

Thanks for your thoughts folks.

Time to go shopping then . . .

 

[moonraker 36]

is it 304 because it bends more easier than 316?

 

[Pennpromo]

316/ 304

is it 304 because it bends more easier than 316?

Moonraker, there's no real difference in the strength of 316 compared to 304, its all to do with the amount of chromium, nickel and molymbdeum, (never could spell it). 316 obviously has better corrosion resistance properties as these elements are in higher concentrations, I could look them up if you are particular!
So I guess that they are 304 to be cheap and cheerful and maybe to cross into other markets that are not so corrosion heavy. Generally if they are subject to movement across the face that keeps them clean such as in a rub rail. Otherwise always go 316 or 316L.

 

[moonraker 36]

just pointing out 304 bends easier(acorrding to a freind of mine who makes stainless steel sculptures)than 316.
i no 316 is a better grade.
never said 304 was a better steel,just that it may bend to the contours of a boat easier.

 

[baldyash]

Just fitted 4 of these today ---(Dauntless strikes again!)