304 vs 316 Stainless Steel: What's the Difference?
The main question when choosing flexible stainless steel flue liners is between 304 and 316.
Stainless Steel 304
- Composition: 18% chromium, 8% nickel
- Temperature: Up to 600°C
- Price: More affordable
- Ideal for: Wood-burning stoves, open fireplaces, water heaters
Stainless Steel 316
- Composition: 16% chromium, 10% nickel, 2% molybdenum
- Resistance: Superior resistance to acids and chlorides
- Ideal for: Oil/gas boilers, coastal areas
When to Choose 304?
For wood-burning stoves, open fireplaces and water heaters — an excellent price-to-performance ratio.
When to Choose 316?
For oil/gas boilers, coastal locations, or where acidic condensate is present in the flue gases.
Single Wall or Twin Wall?
- Single wall: For insertion into an existing chimney
- Twin wall: Smooth inner surface, superior gas-tightness
Explore the full range of Nortuflex flexible stainless steel flue liners.