Today's Prices — August 01, 2026
| Grade / Type | Price | Trend |
|---|---|---|
| 316 Stainless Steel (clean) | $0.45–$0.70/lb | ↑ |
| 316L Stainless (low carbon) | $0.50–$0.75/lb | ↑ |
| 316 Stainless Pipe/Tube | $0.48–$0.72/lb | ↑ |
| 316 Stainless Sheet/Plate | $0.46–$0.68/lb | ↑ |
| 316 Stainless Turnings (dry) | $0.30–$0.50/lb | → |
| Mixed 304/316 (unsorted) | $0.38–$0.55/lb | → |
Why 316 Stainless Steel Is Worth More Than 304
316 stainless steel contains 16% chromium, 10% nickel, and 2% molybdenum. The molybdenum addition significantly improves corrosion resistance, especially against chlorides and acids. This makes 316 the preferred grade for pharmaceutical, chemical processing, marine, and food processing applications — and its higher nickel and molybdenum content makes it worth 25–35% more per pound as scrap than 304.
How to Identify 316 Stainless Steel
316 stainless is non-magnetic (or very weakly magnetic) like 304. The most reliable identification method is XRF (X-ray fluorescence) testing, which we can perform on-site. Mill certifications (MTRs) are the gold standard — if you have them, bring them. Common markings include "316," "316L," "CF-8M" (cast equivalent), or "316SS."
Industries That Generate 316 Stainless Scrap
Pharmaceutical plants, chemical processors, food and beverage facilities, breweries, dairies, offshore oil platforms, and marine fabricators all use 316 stainless extensively. Plant shutdowns from these industries are among our highest-value transactions.
Related: All Stainless Steel Prices · 304 Stainless Price
Frequently Asked Questions
Get a Live Quote Now
Call us with your material and quantity — we'll give you a price in minutes.
Call (754) 310-2984 Use Calculator