AISI 317LMN stainless steel 317LMN

Iron-based austenitic alloy, % by weight (ATI 317LMN composition, per ASTM A240): Cr 17.0-20.0, Ni 13.5-17.5, Mo 4.0-5.0, N 0.10-0.20, Mn 2.00 max, Si 0.75 max, C 0.030 max, P 0.045 max, S 0.030 max, Fe balance (UNS S31726)

Also known as UNS S31726, EN 1.4439, EN name X2CrNiMoN17-13-5, AISI 317LMN, ASTM A240, ATI 317LMN

AISI 317LMN stainless steel (UNS S31726, EN 1.4439) has a density of 8.0 g/cm3 at room temperature in the ATI datasheet.

8 sources · Updated 2026-11-01 · CC BY 4.0

Evidence level

2 of 5

Lab-measured

Pitting resistance

38 -

Strength when annealed

> 240 MPa

Acid corrosion

4.01 mm/y

Weight

8 g/cm³

Recipe, share of the weight

  • Fe balanceIron
  • Cr 17 to 20%Chromium
  • Ni 13.5 to 17.5%Nickel
  • Mo 4 to 5%Molybdenum
  • N 0.1 to 0.2%Nitrogen
  • Mn maximum 2.00Manganese
  • Si maximum 0.75Silicon
  • C maximum 0.030Carbon

Best for

Chloride and acid process service above 317L: PRE 38 against 30 in ATI's formula, with a low-carbon grade for welds

Weakest at

Chloride stress cracking under tensile stress, and embrittlement after prolonged exposure in the sigma and carbide range (ATI)

Risk at a glance

  • People Low. Fume, not solid metal
  • If it fails High. Chloride stress corrosion cracking
  • Corrosion Moderate. Molybdenum and nitrogen raise the pitting index: PRE 38 for 317LMN, against 30 for 317L and 25 for 316 in ATI's table.

Quick facts: 317LMN

Key properties of 317LMN
PropertyValueBasis
Density8 g/cm³1 sourced value
Yield strengthat least 240 MPa2 sourced values across conditions
Tensile strength550 to 800 MPa2 sourced values across conditions
Young's modulus200 GPa1 sourced value
Hardness (Brinell)223 to 250 HB2 sourced values across conditions
Thermal conductivity14 W/(m·K)1 sourced value
Thermal expansion (CTE)16.5 to 18.2 ppm/K2 sourced values across conditions
Melting point1,320 to 1,443 °C2 sourced values across conditions
Specific heat460 J/(kg·K)1 sourced value
Electrical resistivity7.9e-7 to 8.5e-7 Ω·m2 sourced values across conditions

What is the density of AISI 317LMN stainless steel?

AISI 317LMN stainless steel has a density of 8 g/cm³. The source and test conditions are listed in the properties table on this page.

What is the thermal conductivity of AISI 317LMN stainless steel?

AISI 317LMN stainless steel has a thermal conductivity of 14 W/(m·K). The source and test conditions are listed in the properties table on this page.

What is the coefficient of thermal expansion of AISI 317LMN stainless steel?

AISI 317LMN stainless steel has a coefficient of thermal expansion of 16.5 to 18.2 ppm/K. The range covers 2 sourced values across the tempers, forms and test conditions the sources report; room-temperature values are used where a source states a temperature.

What is the melting point of AISI 317LMN stainless steel?

AISI 317LMN stainless steel has a melting point of 1,320 to 1,443 °C. The range covers 2 sourced values across the tempers, forms and test conditions the sources report; room-temperature values are used where a source states a temperature.

What is the yield strength of AISI 317LMN stainless steel?

AISI 317LMN stainless steel has a yield strength of at least 240 MPa. The range covers 2 sourced values across the tempers, forms and test conditions the sources report; room-temperature values are used where a source states a temperature.

What are the other names and codes for AISI 317LMN stainless steel?

AISI 317LMN stainless steel is also written as UNS S31726, EN 1.4439, EN name X2CrNiMoN17-13-5, AISI 317LMN, ASTM A240, ATI 317LMN. Each code is printed in the source listed beside it in the designations table.

What is AISI 317LMN stainless steel used for?

Uses recorded in the sources include Flue gas desulfurization systems, stack liners, absorbers, ducts, dampers and fans; Apparatus and vessel construction, chemical and petrochemical plant.

Why it exists

AISI 317LMN is a stainless steel for chloride and acid service above 317L. Its molybdenum and nitrogen give a PRE of 38 in ATI's formula, against 30 for 317L and 25 for 316. ATI gives its minimum annealed strength as 240 MPa yield and 550 MPa tensile, and its density is 8.0 g/cm3 at room temperature.

Where it's used

Flue gas desulfurization systems

Sandmeyer lists flue gas desulfurization systems, stack liners, absorbers, ducts, dampers and fans among the applications of 317LMN. ATI says the grade is intended for severe service such as FGD systems.

Chemical and petrochemical plant

Team Edelstahl lists apparatus and vessel construction and the chemical and petrochemical industry as markets for 1.4439, along with food, paper, pump, and pulp and textile industries.

Recipe

Iron-based austenitic alloy, % by weight (ATI 317LMN composition, per ASTM A240): Cr 17.0-20.0, Ni 13.5-17.5, Mo 4.0-5.0, N 0.10-0.20, Mn 2.00 max, Si 0.75 max, C 0.030 max, P 0.045 max, S 0.030 max, Fe balance (UNS S31726)

317LMN is a wrought austenitic stainless steel, a solid solution of iron, chromium, nickel and molybdenum with a nitrogen addition. Carbon is kept low so that chromium carbides do not form at grain boundaries in welds. ATI gives the composition as percentage-by-weight ranges per ASTM A240, so the shares below are limits, not measured values.

What 317LMN is made of
IngredientShare of the weightWhat it does
Iron Fe balance The matrix. Nickel keeps the iron-based structure austenitic at room temperature.
Chromium Cr 17 to 20% Forms the passive oxide film that protects against general corrosion.
Nickel Ni 13.5 to 17.5% Stabilizes the austenitic structure.
Molybdenum Mo 4 to 5% Raises resistance to pitting and crevice corrosion in chloride solutions.
Nitrogen N 0.1 to 0.2% Adds to the pitting index (30 N in the PRE formula) and increases strength.
Manganese Mn maximum 2.00 Present in the grade up to the ATI maximum.
Silicon Si maximum 0.75 Present in the grade up to the ATI maximum.
Carbon C maximum 0.030 Kept low so that chromium carbides do not form at grain boundaries during welding, which is what the L in 317LMN means.

Weight shares are as printed in the sources.

What it can do

Pitting resistance

38 -

worked out from the formula

ATI gives a PRE of 38 for 317LMN, calculated from its formula Cr + 3.3Mo + 30N, against 30 for 317L and 25 for 316.

Strength when annealed

> 240 MPa

measured

The ATI minimum for annealed plate, sheet and strip is 240 MPa yield and 550 MPa tensile, with 40 % elongation in 2 in.

Acid corrosion

4.01 mm/y

measured

In boiling 10 % sulfuric acid, ATI measured 4.01 mm/y for 317LMN and 16.2 mm/y for 316L.

Weight

8 g/cm³

measured

Density is 8.0 g/cm3 at room temperature in the ATI datasheet, a heavy material for static plant rather than light structures.

How it compares

Compared with 316L, 317LMN has more molybdenum and adds nitrogen, which gives it a PRE of 38 in ATI's formula against 25 for 316. In ATI's boiling 10 % sulfuric acid test, 317LMN corroded at 4.01 mm/y, against 16.2 mm/y for 316L. Its yield minimum of 240 MPa applies to annealed plate, sheet and strip under ASTM A240, so the strength rows describe that product form only.

The same measurements for each material, so you can compare them. Each row names the key condition under the value; the full conditions and methods are in the numbered notes under Technical details. Other materials are shown beside it; each was measured under its own conditions, so open its page before comparing closely. Compare every grade in the family.

Benchmarks
Measurement317LMN304 (UNS S30400)301 (UNS S30100)303 (UNS S30300)316 (UNS S31600)316L (UNS S31603)302304L (UNS S30403)309310S (UNS S31008, EN 1.4845)317L321347347H904L (UNS N08904, EN 1.4539)Nitronic 60
Thermal behavior and safety
Melting range (ATI)1320 to 1400 °C31673 K1399 to 1421 °C1455 °C1390 °C1390 °C1420 °C1399 to 1421 °C2550 to 2650 °F1410 °C1390 to 1440 °C1398 to 1446 °C1398 to 1446 °C2550 to 2635 degF1300 to 1390 °Cno data
Melting range (Sandmeyer sheet)1393 to 1443 °C41673 K1399 to 1421 °C1455 °C1390 °C1390 °C1420 °C1399 to 1421 °C2550 to 2650 °F1410 °C1390 to 1440 °C1398 to 1446 °C1398 to 1446 °C2550 to 2635 degF1300 to 1390 °Cno data
Thermal conductivity, 20 to 100 °C (ATI)14.6 W/(m·K)514 W/m.K16.3 W/m.K15 W/m°C14.6 W/m.K14.6 W/m·K16.2 W/(m·K)16.3 W/m·K15.6 W/m·K13 W/(m·K)14 W/(m·K)16.3 W/(m·K)16.3 W/(m·K)14 W/m.°C12 W/(m·K)9 Btu/ft hr °F
Thermal conductivity, 20 °C (Team Edelstahl 1.4439 datasheet)14 W/(m·K)614 W/m.K16.3 W/m.K15 W/m°C14.6 W/m.K14.6 W/m·K16.2 W/(m·K)16.3 W/m·K15.6 W/m·K13 W/(m·K)14 W/(m·K)16.3 W/(m·K)16.3 W/(m·K)14 W/m.°C12 W/(m·K)9 Btu/ft hr °F
Specific heat capacity (ATI)0.46 J/g-K7490 J/kg.K500 J/kg.K500 J/kg°C450 J/kg.K450 J/kg °K500 J/kg K500 J/kg·K502 J/kg·K480 J/(kg·K)500 J/(kg·K)500 J/kg K500 J/(kg·K)485 J/(kg.°C)450 J/(kg·K)0.12 Btu/lb °F
Specific heat capacity, 0 to 100 °C (Sandmeyer sheet)502 J/(kg·K)8490 J/kg.K500 J/kg.K500 J/kg°C450 J/kg.K450 J/kg °K500 J/kg K500 J/kg·K502 J/kg·K480 J/(kg·K)500 J/(kg·K)500 J/kg K500 J/(kg·K)485 J/(kg.°C)450 J/(kg·K)0.12 Btu/lb °F
Physical and electrical
Density, room temperature (ATI)8 g/cm³17.85 Mg/m38.03 g/cm³7.9 kg/dm38.027 g/cm³8.03 g/cm³7.9 g/cm³7.9 g/cm³8.03 g/cm³7.8 kg/dm38.027 g/cm³7.92 g/cm³7.96 g/cm³7.98 kg/dm37.95 g/cm³7.622 gm/cm³
Electrical resistivity (ATI)0.79 μ-ohm-m1165 10-8 ohm.m72 µΩ·cm72 microhm-cm69 10-8 ohm.m74 μΩ·cm72 µΩ·cm72 microhm-cm78 µΩ·cm0.86 Ω·mm²/m475 Ohm-circ mil/ft72 microhm·cm72 µΩ·cmno data95.2 µΩ·cm98.2 microhm-cm
Electrical resistivity, 20 °C (Sandmeyer sheet)85.1 Microhm-cm1265 10-8 ohm.m72 µΩ·cm72 microhm-cm69 10-8 ohm.m74 μΩ·cm72 µΩ·cm72 microhm-cm78 µΩ·cm0.86 Ω·mm²/m475 Ohm-circ mil/ft72 microhm·cm72 µΩ·cmno data95.2 µΩ·cm98.2 microhm-cm
Hardness, maximum, Brinell (ASTM A240, ATI)< 223 HB16no datano datano datano datano data< 230 HB< 201 HBno datano data< 217 HB< 217 HBno datano datano datano data
Hardness, maximum at 20 °C (Team Edelstahl 1.4439 datasheet)< 250 HB20no datano datano datano datano data< 230 HB< 201 HBno datano data< 217 HB< 217 HBno datano datano datano data
Temperature behavior
Critical crevice corrosion temperature (ATI 317LMN)24 °C24no datano datano datano datano datano datano datano datano datano datano datano datano datano datano data
Other measurements
Modulus of elasticity (ATI)200 GPa2200 GPa193 GPa193 GPa200 GPa193 GPa200 GPa200 GPa200 GPa195 GPa200 GPa193 GPa193 GPa200 GPa195 GPa180 GPa
Coefficient of thermal expansion, 25 to 100 °C (ATI)16.5 10^-6/°C9no data16.6 10-6/K16 10-6/°C16.5 10-6/K16.5 10-6 cm/cm/°C16.6 µm/(m·°C)16.6 10-6 cm/cm/°C15.6 µm/(m·K)16.5 ppm/K16.5 10^-6 cm/cm/°C16.6 ppm/K16.6 ppm/K9.2 in/in.degF x 10^-615.8 ppm/K15.8 µm/m/°C
Coefficient of thermal expansion, 25 to 500 °C (ATI)18.2 10^-6/°C10no data16.6 10-6/K16 10-6/°C16.5 10-6/K16.5 10-6 cm/cm/°C16.6 µm/(m·°C)16.6 10-6 cm/cm/°C15.6 µm/(m·K)16.5 ppm/K16.5 10^-6 cm/cm/°C16.6 ppm/K16.6 ppm/K9.2 in/in.degF x 10^-615.8 ppm/K15.8 µm/m/°C
Yield strength, 0.2% offset, minimum (ASTM A240, ATI)> 240 MPa13> 205 MPa205 MPa> 172 MPa205 MPa170 MPa290 MPa> 170 MPa290 MPa290 MPa> 205 MPa> 205 MPa> 205 MPa> 30 ksi> 240 MPa> 345 MPa
Ultimate tensile strength, minimum (ASTM A240, ATI)> 550 MPa14> 515 MPa515 MPa> 517 MPa515 MPa485 MPa655 MPa> 485 MPa621 MPa610 MPa> 515 MPa> 515 MPa> 515 MPa> 75 ksi530 to 730 MPa> 655 MPa
Elongation in 2 in (5.1 cm), minimum (ASTM A240, ATI)> 40 %15> 40 %40 %> 35 %40 %40 %55 %> 40 %49 %42 %> 40 %> 35 %> 40 %> 40 %> 35 %> 35 %
Yield point Rp0.2, minimum at 20 °C (Team Edelstahl 1.4439 datasheet)> 280 N/mm217> 205 MPa205 MPa> 172 MPa205 MPa170 MPa290 MPa> 170 MPa290 MPa290 MPa> 205 MPa> 205 MPa> 205 MPa> 30 ksi> 240 MPa> 345 MPa
Tensile strength Rm, 20 °C (Team Edelstahl 1.4439 datasheet)580 to 800 N/mm218> 515 MPa515 MPa> 517 MPa515 MPa485 MPa655 MPa> 485 MPa621 MPa610 MPa> 515 MPa> 515 MPa> 515 MPa> 75 ksi530 to 730 MPa> 655 MPa
Elongation A5.65, minimum at 20 °C (Team Edelstahl 1.4439 datasheet)> 35 %19> 40 %40 %> 35 %40 %40 %55 %> 40 %49 %42 %> 40 %> 35 %> 40 %> 40 %> 35 %> 35 %
Pitting resistance equivalent, PRE (ATI 317LMN)38 -21no datano datano datano datano datano datano datano datano datano datano datano datano datano datano data
Pitting resistance equivalent, PRE (ATI 317L, comparison grade)30 -22no datano datano datano datano datano datano datano datano datano datano datano datano datano datano data
Pitting resistance equivalent, PRE (ATI 316, comparison grade)25 -23no datano datano datano datano datano datano datano datano datano datano datano datano datano datano data
Corrosion rate, 10 % sulfuric acid, boiling (ATI 317LMN)4.01 mm/y25no datano datano datano datano datano datano datano datano datano datano datano datano datano datano data
Corrosion rate, 10 % sulfuric acid, boiling (ATI 316L, comparison grade)16.2 mm/y26no datano datano datano datano datano datano datano datano datano datano datano datano datano datano data
Crevice weight loss in simulated FGD solution, 50 °C (ATI 317LMN)0.0129 g/cm²27no datano datano datano datano datano datano datano datano datano datano datano datano datano datano data
Crevice weight loss in simulated FGD solution, 50 °C (ATI 317L, comparison grade)0.0377 g/cm²28no datano datano datano datano datano datano datano datano datano datano datano datano datano datano data

Why choose it, and why not

Good for

  • Chloride pitting and crevice attack in process plant, with PRE 38 in ATI's formula.
  • Flue gas desulfurization systems, stack liners, absorbers, ducts and fans, as Sandmeyer lists.
  • Annealed plate, sheet and strip where a 240 MPa minimum yield is enough.

Watch out for

  • Chloride stress cracking under tensile stress, which Sandmeyer says the grade is still susceptible to.
  • Highly oxidizing acids such as nitric acid, which ATI names as the known exception.
  • Welding fume contains nickel and chromium compounds, and IARC classes welding fumes as possibly carcinogenic.
  • No space use or space-environment test is recorded for 317LMN in the sources read.

AISI 317LMN (UNS S31726, EN 1.4439) is a low-carbon, molybdenum- and nitrogen-bearing stainless steel for chloride and acid process plant and FGD systems. It has a PRE of 38 in ATI's formula against 30 for 317L and 25 for 316, and it has 240 MPa minimum yield when annealed. It is heavy at 8.0 g/cm3, it can still crack under chloride stress, and no space-environment data for it were found.

Technical details

For scientists and researchers. Everything above comes from the record below: every number with its method, its conditions and its source.

Other names and standards

The same grade under other systems, as datasheets and standards print them. Each code was checked against the page it comes from.

Other names and standards
SystemCodes
UNSS31726
EN1.4439
EN nameX2CrNiMoN17-13-5
AISI317LMN
ASTMA240 (plate, sheet and strip)
Trade nameATI 317LMN

Notes

The method, full conditions and any caveat for the numbered rows above.

Notes for the numbered rows
#MeasurementMethodConditionsCaveat
1Density, room temperature (ATI)Value printed in the physical properties section of the ATI datasheetgrade 317LMN (UNS S31726)temperature 20 °C (68 °F), room temperature as stated in the physical properties sectionbasis ATI says its physical data are applicable to the 317LMN, 317LM and 317L class for all practical purposesunit in source 0.29 lb/in3 and 8.0 g/cm3—
2Modulus of elasticity (ATI)Value printed in the physical properties section of the ATI datasheetgrade 317LMN (UNS S31726)temperature 20 °C (68 °F), room temperature—
3Melting range (ATI)Range printed in the physical properties section of the ATI datasheetgrade 317LMN (UNS S31726)unit in source 2410 to 2550 °F—
4Melting range (Sandmeyer sheet)Range printed on the Sandmeyer 317LMN specification sheet; it differs from the ATI range, both recordedgrade 317LMN (UNS S31726)unit in source 2540 – 2630°F—
5Thermal conductivity, 20 to 100 °C (ATI)Value printed in the physical properties section of the ATI datasheetgrade 317LMN (UNS S31726)temperature 20 to 100 °C (68 to 212 °F)unit in source 14.6 Watts/m-K—
6Thermal conductivity, 20 °C (Team Edelstahl 1.4439 datasheet)Value printed in the physikalische Eigenschaften table of the Team Edelstahl 1.4439 datasheetgrade 1.4439temperature 20 °Cunit in source 14 W/m K—
7Specific heat capacity (ATI)Value printed in the physical properties section of the ATI datasheetgrade 317LMN (UNS S31726)temperature 20 °C (68 °F), room temperatureunit in source 0.46 J/g-K—
8Specific heat capacity, 0 to 100 °C (Sandmeyer sheet)Value printed in the physical properties block of the Sandmeyer 317LMN specification sheetgrade 317LMN (UNS S31726)temperature 0 to 100 °Cunit in source 502 J/kg-°K (0 – 100°C)—
9Coefficient of thermal expansion, 25 to 100 °C (ATI)Value in brackets printed in the physical properties section of the ATI datasheetgrade 317LMN (UNS S31726)temperature 77 °F (25 °C) to 212 °F (100 °C)unit in source 9.2 (16.5) 10-6 /°F (10-6 /°C)—
10Coefficient of thermal expansion, 25 to 500 °C (ATI)Value in brackets printed in the physical properties section of the ATI datasheetgrade 317LMN (UNS S31726)temperature 77 °F (25 °C) to 932 °F (500 °C)unit in source 10.1 (18.2) 10-6 /°F (10-6 /°C)—
11Electrical resistivity (ATI)Value printed in the physical properties section of the ATI datasheetgrade 317LMN (UNS S31726)temperature 20 °C (68 °F), room temperatureunit in source 31.1 μ-ohm-in and 0.79 μ-ohm-m—
12Electrical resistivity, 20 °C (Sandmeyer sheet)Value printed in the physical properties block of the Sandmeyer 317LMN specification sheet; it differs from the ATI value, both recordedgrade 317LMN (UNS S31726)temperature 20 °Cunit in source 85.1 Microhm-cm at 20°C—
13Yield strength, 0.2% offset, minimum (ASTM A240, ATI)Minimum mechanical property printed in the ATI 317LMN column of the ASTM A240 tablegrade 317LMN (UNS S31726)form plate, sheet and striptemper annealedstandard ASTM A240 minimumunit in source 35 ksi (240 MPa)—
14Ultimate tensile strength, minimum (ASTM A240, ATI)Minimum mechanical property printed in the ATI 317LMN column of the ASTM A240 tablegrade 317LMN (UNS S31726)form plate, sheet and striptemper annealedstandard ASTM A240 minimumunit in source 80 ksi (550 MPa)—
15Elongation in 2 in (5.1 cm), minimum (ASTM A240, ATI)Minimum mechanical property printed in the ATI 317LMN column of the ASTM A240 tablegrade 317LMN (UNS S31726)form plate, sheet and striptemper annealedgauge 2 in (5.1 cm)—
16Hardness, maximum, Brinell (ASTM A240, ATI)Maximum printed in the ATI 317LMN column of the ASTM A240 tablegrade 317LMN (UNS S31726)form plate, sheet and striptemper annealedstandard ASTM A240 maximumunit in source 223 BHN, 96 RB—
17Yield point Rp0.2, minimum at 20 °C (Team Edelstahl 1.4439 datasheet)Value printed in the Mechanische Eigenschaften bei 20°C table of the Team Edelstahl 1.4439 datasheetgrade 1.4439temperature 20 °Cbasis minimum printed in the German datasheet; product form not stated—
18Tensile strength Rm, 20 °C (Team Edelstahl 1.4439 datasheet)Range printed in the Mechanische Eigenschaften bei 20°C table of the Team Edelstahl 1.4439 datasheetgrade 1.4439temperature 20 °Cbasis range printed in the German datasheet; product form not stated—
19Elongation A5.65, minimum at 20 °C (Team Edelstahl 1.4439 datasheet)Minimum printed in the Mechanische Eigenschaften bei 20°C table of the Team Edelstahl 1.4439 datasheetgrade 1.4439temperature 20 °Cgauge A5,65 as printed—
20Hardness, maximum at 20 °C (Team Edelstahl 1.4439 datasheet)Maximum printed in the Mechanische Eigenschaften bei 20°C table of the Team Edelstahl 1.4439 datasheetgrade 1.4439temperature 20 °C—
21Pitting resistance equivalent, PRE (ATI 317LMN)Calculated value printed in the ATI Pitting Resistance Equivalents tablegrade 317LMN (UNS S31726)formula PRE = Cr + 3.3Mo + 30N, as printed by ATIbasis calculated by ATI from the composition; not a test result—
22Pitting resistance equivalent, PRE (ATI 317L, comparison grade)Calculated value printed in the ATI Pitting Resistance Equivalents tablegrade 317L (UNS S31703), comparison onlyformula PRE = Cr + 3.3Mo + 30N, as printed by ATIbasis calculated by ATI from the composition; not a test result—
23Pitting resistance equivalent, PRE (ATI 316, comparison grade)Calculated value printed in the ATI Pitting Resistance Equivalents tablegrade 316 (comparison only, not 317LMN)formula PRE = Cr + 3.3Mo + 30N, as printed by ATIbasis calculated by ATI from the composition; not a test result—
24Critical crevice corrosion temperature (ATI 317LMN)Value printed in the Critical Crevice Corrosion Temperatures table; onset temperature of crevice corrosiongrade 317LMN (UNS S31726)test modified ASTM G48 Bunit in source 75 °F—
25Corrosion rate, 10 % sulfuric acid, boiling (ATI 317LMN)Value in brackets printed in the Corrosion Resistance in Boiling Solutions and ASTM Tests tablegrade 317LMN (UNS S31726)medium 10 % sulfuric acid, boiling, annealed strip (ATI samples activated)unit in source 158 mils per year (4.01 mm/y)—
26Corrosion rate, 10 % sulfuric acid, boiling (ATI 316L, comparison grade)Value in brackets printed in the Corrosion Resistance in Boiling Solutions and ASTM Tests tablegrade 316L, comparison onlymedium 10 % sulfuric acid, boiling, annealed strip (ATI samples activated)unit in source 636 mils per year (16.2 mm/y)—
27Crevice weight loss in simulated FGD solution, 50 °C (ATI 317LMN)Value printed in the Crevice Corrosion in a Simulated FGD System Environment tablegrade 317LMN (UNS S31726)temperature 50 °C (122 °F)medium simulated FGD system solution, 72-hour exposure based on ASTM G-48B, 7 vol.% H2SO4, 3 vol% HCl, 1 wt% CuCl2, 1 wt% FeCl3unit in source g/Cm2—
28Crevice weight loss in simulated FGD solution, 50 °C (ATI 317L, comparison grade)Value printed in the Crevice Corrosion in a Simulated FGD System Environment tablegrade 317L, comparison onlytemperature 50 °C (122 °F)medium simulated FGD system solution, 72-hour exposure based on ASTM G-48B, 7 vol.% H2SO4, 3 vol% HCl, 1 wt% CuCl2, 1 wt% FeCl3unit in source g/Cm2—

Corrosion and compatibility

What happens when it meets other materials and environments.

Corrosion and compatibility
EnvironmentConcernWhat happens
Chloride solutions, pitting and crevice attack moderate Molybdenum and nitrogen raise the pitting index: PRE 38 for 317LMN, against 30 for 317L and 25 for 316 in ATI's table.1
Simulated flue gas desulfurization solution, crevice attack at 50 °C moderate In a simulated flue gas desulfurization solution at 50 °C, 317LMN lost 0.0129 g/cm2, against 0.0377 g/cm2 for 317L (ATI).2
Boiling 10 % sulfuric acid moderate In boiling 10 % sulfuric acid, 317LMN corroded at 4.01 mm/y, against 16.2 mm/y for 316L (ATI).3
Highly oxidizing acids, such as nitric acid moderate Nitric acid is the known exception to the broad resistance of the molybdenum-bearing grades.4
Welds and prolonged heating in the sensitization range moderate The low carbon resists sensitization in welds, but long exposure in the sigma and carbide range can still harm intergranular corrosion resistance.5
Chloride ions with tensile stress moderate Chloride stress cracking is still possible; 317LMN is only somewhat better than 304 and 304L.6
Mild atmospheric and other mildly corrosive media low Media that do not attack 18Cr-8Ni steels will normally not attack 317LMN.7
Corrosion details
#EnvironmentDetailsTest conditions
1 Chloride solutions, pitting and crevice attack ATI says the combination of molybdenum and nitrogen is particularly effective in enhancing resistance to pitting and crevice corrosion, and that its PRE formula is Cr + 3.3Mo + 30N. ATI's critical crevice corrosion temperature for 317LMN is 24 °C in a modified ASTM G48 B test. basis PRE calculated by ATI from composition; critical crevice temperature from a modified ASTM G48 B test
2 Simulated flue gas desulfurization solution, crevice attack at 50 °C ATI reports that crevice corrosion in this simulated solution is less for 317LMN than for 317L at the same test temperature. Its 72-hour test is based on ASTM G-48B, and ATI names it as a case where these alloys are frequently used. temperature 50 °C (122 °F)basis single 72-hour test in one simulated solution; not a service life
3 Boiling 10 % sulfuric acid ATI says resistance to sulfuric acid increases with molybdenum content, and that the alloys resist sulfuric acid up to 5 percent at temperatures as high as 120°F (49°C). Higher concentrations at lower temperatures need service tests. medium 10 % sulfuric acid, boiling, annealed stripbasis ATI boiling-solution table; samples activated as printed
4 Highly oxidizing acids, such as nitric acid ATI says that environments not corrosive to 18Cr-8Ni steels will not attack molybdenum-bearing alloys, with the exception of highly oxidizing acids such as nitric acid. basis general statement; no concentration or temperature given
5 Welds and prolonged heating in the sensitization range ATI says prolonged exposure in the range "800 to 1400°F (427-816°C)" can be detrimental to intergranular corrosion resistance and may cause sigma-phase embrittlement. Sandmeyer says the higher nitrogen of 317LMN retards sigma and carbide precipitation. basis ATI low-carbon statement (less than 0.03%); Sandmeyer nitrogen statement
6 Chloride ions with tensile stress Sandmeyer says 317LMN "is somewhat more resistant to stress corrosion cracking than 304/304L stainless steels" but "it is still susceptible". basis general statement; no threshold temperature or stress given in the sources read
7 Mild atmospheric and other mildly corrosive media ATI says environments that are not corrosive to 18Cr-8Ni steels will not attack alloys containing molybdenum, with the exception of highly oxidizing acids. basis general statement; no test duration or concentration given

Risks and side effects

Hazards to people, what happens when a cell overheats, and how the material is handled and stored.

For people

Welding fume is the main hazard. The massive alloy, as shipped, has no known toxicity beyond allergy to its metals such as nickel, according to the Rolled Alloys SDS.

Solid metal
The Rolled Alloys SDS says massive alloys have no known toxicological properties other than allergic reactions in people sensitive to their metals. It does not name 317LMN.
Welding and grinding fume
Fume contains oxides of iron, manganese, nickel and chromium. The same SDS says IARC has concluded that welding fumes are possibly carcinogenic to humans.

If it fails

These are the failure routes found in the sources. None is a measured field result for 317LMN: the sources are a manufacturer datasheet, a supplier sheet, a safety sheet and USGS summaries.

Sigma phase and carbides
Prolonged exposure in the sigma and carbide range can embrittle the alloy and lower its intergranular corrosion resistance. Sandmeyer says the nitrogen in 317LMN slows sigma phase as well as carbides.
Chloride cracking
Chloride ions with residual tensile stress can crack the steel. Sandmeyer says 317LMN is somewhat more resistant than 304 and 304L, but it is still susceptible.

Handling

Handling is mostly about fume control, welding filler and machining.

Welding
Use an overalloyed filler metal, as ATI suggests, and post-weld anneal and pickle where the service needs full corrosion resistance.
Machining
Use sharp tools and a steady feed, because the alloy work-hardens.

Test details
The original wording and numbers from the sources, for readers who want them.

Failure risks

Failure risks
FailureTrigger and consequence
Sigma-phase embrittlement and carbide precipitationmoderate severityProlonged exposure in the range ATI prints as 800 to 1400°F (427-816°C), such as stress relief, forging or weld heat-affected zonesEmbrittlement and lower intergranular corrosion resistance. Sandmeyer says the nitrogen in 317LMN retards sigma phase as well as carbides, which lowers the risk but does not remove it.
Chloride stress corrosion crackinghigh severityChloride or other halide ions together with residual tensile stress from cold work or weldingThe steel can crack in service. Sandmeyer says the alloy is still susceptible, although somewhat more resistant than 304 and 304L.
Pitting and crevice attack in chloride-bearing acidmoderate severityChloride ions in crevices or under deposits, such as in flue gas desulfurization systemsLocal attack at crevices. ATI gives a critical crevice corrosion temperature of 24 °C in a modified ASTM G48 B test, so crevice attack can start at modest temperatures in severe crevices.
Weld corrosion without an overalloyed fillermoderate severityWelding without an overalloyed filler metal, and no post-weld anneal and pickle, in a corrosive serviceThe weld may resist attack less than the base metal. ATI says the optimum corrosion resistance of welds comes from post-weld annealing and pickling.
Work hardening during machininglow severityMachining with dull tools or light, interrupted cutsThe alloy work-hardens, which raises tool wear and the risk of surface damage. Sandmeyer says it is less machinable than 410 stainless steel.

Handling and storage

  • Use local exhaust ventilation and a fume respirator for welding, cutting and grinding, as the Rolled Alloys SDS recommends.
  • Weld with an overalloyed filler metal, as ATI suggests for 317LMN, and post-weld anneal and pickle where the service needs the full corrosion resistance.
  • Hot work and solution anneal at the temperatures printed in the Sandmeyer and Team Edelstahl sheets; do not work the alloy below the minimum that Sandmeyer prints.
  • Machine with sharp tools and a steady feed, because the alloy work-hardens (Sandmeyer machining section).

Mitigations

  • Team Edelstahl prints a solution-annealing range of "1020 - 1120°C" (Lösungsglühen, +AT) and a hot-forming range of "1120 - 900°C".
  • Post-weld annealing and pickling give the optimum corrosion resistance of autogenous welds, according to ATI.

Supply and geography

How common the raw materials are and where they come from.

Nickel (austenite former, in the ATI composition range)

USGS: world nickel resources are estimated to contain "more than 350 million tons of nickel".

Top producers (2025)
Indonesia 66.7%, Philippines 6.9%, Russia 5.1%
Recycling
USGS: in 2025 nickel recovered from scrap accounted for "approximately 60% of apparent consumption".
Substitutes
USGS: low-nickel, duplex or ultrahigh-chromium stainless steels have been substituted for austenitic grades in construction.

Chromium (main passive-film former, in the ATI composition range)

USGS: world chromium resources are "greater than 12 billion tons of shipping-grade chromite".

Top producers (2025)
South Africa 45.1%, Turkey 17.6%, Kazakhstan 13.7%
Recycling
USGS: in 2025 recycled chromium, contained in reported stainless-steel scrap receipts, accounted for "21% of apparent consumption".
Substitutes
USGS: "Chromium has no substitute in stainless steel, the leading end use."

Molybdenum (4.0 to 5.0 % in the ATI composition range)

Top producers (2025)
China 37.3%, Chile 16.2%, Peru 15%
Recycling
USGS: molybdenum is recycled as a component of catalysts, ferrous scrap and superalloy scrap.
Substitutes
USGS: there is little substitution for molybdenum in steels and cast irons.

Updated