If cost-efficiency is your priority for standard environments, 304 is ideal. For marine, chemical, or highly corrosive environments, the addition of Molybdenum in 316 makes it the superior choice

Property / Specification H59 Brass 304 Stainless Steel316 Stainless Steel
Chemical CompositionCu ≈ 59%, Zn balanceCr 18%, Ni 8%Cr 16%, Ni 10%, Mo 2%
Corrosion Resistance★★★ (Moderate)★★★★ (High)★★★★★ (Excellent)
Chloride Ion Resistance★★ (Poor)★★★☆ (Good)★★★★★ (Superior)
Mechanical Strength★★★ (Standard)★★★★ (High)★★★★ (High)
Machinability★★★★★ (Excellent)★★★ (Moderate)★★ (Difficult)
Weldability★★★ (Fair)★★★★★ (Excellent)★★★★★ (Excellent)
Expected Service Life10 – 20 years20+ years25+ years
Material Cost High LowModerate
AppearanceGolden YellowSilver WhiteSilver White
weightHeavyMediumMedium