316L stainless steel corrugated pipe is a flexible, pressure-rated tubing designed for vibration absorption, thermal expansion compensation, and misalignment correction in industrial piping systems. TeCarve manufactures corrugated pipe to EN 10380 and GB/T 32570 standards, ensuring high fatigue resistance and leak-tight performance. As a manufacturing-backed supplier with factories in Foshan and Wenzhou, TeCarve provides competitive 316L corrugated pipe price quotes for DN10 to DN150 sizes, backed by EN 10204 3.1 mill test certificates.
316L stainless steel corrugated pipe offers superior corrosion resistance compared to 304, with a maximum carbon content of 0.03%. According to EN 10380, 316L corrugated pipe contains nickel (10.0–14.0%) and chromium (16.0–18.0%), plus molybdenum (2.0–3.0%) which enhances pitting resistance in chloride environments. This grade withstands operating temperatures from -196°C to 450°C and pressures up to 2.5 MPa depending on diameter and wall thickness.
Corrugated pipe manufactured by TeCarve undergoes rigorous quality control including hydrostatic testing at 1.5 times the design pressure. Each production lot is subjected to chemical analysis, mechanical testing, and eddy current testing per EN 10380 requirements. The corrugation process creates a flexible bellows profile that provides axial, lateral, and angular movement capability, reducing stress on connected equipment.
The price quote for 316L corrugated pipe depends on diameter, wall thickness, corrugation pitch, and quantity. TeCarve offers MOQ as low as 100–300 kg with lead times of 10–25 days after deposit. For a typical DN50 (2-inch) 316L corrugated pipe, the price per meter ranges from $15 to $35 depending on specifications. Bulk orders of 1 ton or more receive volume discounts.
EN 10380 specifies dimensions for corrugated metal hose assemblies with nominal sizes DN10 (10 mm) to DN150 (150 mm). The standard covers pressure ratings from PN6 to PN25, with burst pressure at least 3 times the working pressure. GB/T 32570 is the Chinese equivalent standard, requiring similar performance criteria. TeCarve’s corrugated pipe complies with both standards, ensuring global acceptance.
For high-temperature applications above 300°C, 316L retains mechanical strength better than 304 due to its molybdenum content. At 400°C, 316L has a tensile strength of approximately 410 MPa, while 304 drops to 380 MPa. This makes 316L corrugated pipe ideal for steam lines, hot oil systems, and exhaust gas handling where thermal cycling is frequent.
TeCarve provides custom end fittings including flanges, threaded connections, and welded nipples for corrugated pipe assemblies. Standard surface finishes include pickled and annealed, polished up to 400 grit, and bright annealed mirror finish. For corrosive environments, a PVC coating or galvanized braid can be added for extra protection.
Grade Comparison Table
| Grade | C% max | Ni% | Cr% | Key Property | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 304 | 0.08 | 8.0–10.5 | 18.0–20.0 | General corrosion resistance | Water, air, mild chemicals |
| 304L | 0.03 | 8.0–12.0 | 18.0–20.0 | Improved weldability | Welded assemblies, food processing |
| 316 | 0.08 | 10.0–14.0 | 16.0–18.0 | Good pitting resistance | Chemical processing, marine |
| 316L | 0.03 | 10.0–14.0 | 16.0–18.0 | Excellent corrosion resistance | Seawater, chlorides, pharmaceuticals |
| 321 | 0.08 | 9.0–12.0 | 17.0–19.0 | High temperature stability | Exhaust systems, heat exchangers up to 900°C |
How to Choose the Right Grade for Your Application
- Identify the operating environment – For chloride exposure (seawater, brine), choose 316L. For dry air or fresh water, 304 is sufficient.
- Check temperature range – If continuous operation exceeds 300°C, 316L or 321 is recommended. 304 loses strength above 300°C.
- Evaluate pressure requirements – For working pressures above 1.6 MPa, select a thicker wall or higher grade like 316L for added safety margin.
- Consider welding needs – If the corrugated pipe will be welded in the field, use L-grades (304L, 316L) to prevent sensitization and intergranular corrosion.
- Review chemical compatibility – For acidic media (pH < 4), 316L offers better resistance. For alkaline solutions, 304 may be acceptable. Consult a corrosion chart.
Industry Applications
- Oil & Gas – 316L corrugated pipe compensates for thermal expansion in offshore platform piping systems exposed to saltwater spray.
- Chemical & Petrochemical – Used in reactor feed lines and acid transfer where 316L resists pitting from chlorides at temperatures up to 450°C.
- Food & Beverage – Sanitary corrugated hose for CIP (clean-in-place) systems; 316L prevents bacterial growth and withstands caustic cleaning agents.
- Pharmaceutical & Medical – Flexible connections for sterile water systems; 316L meets FDA and USP Class VI requirements for purity.
- Energy & Power – In steam turbine bypass lines, corrugated pipe absorbs vibration and thermal movement at pressures up to 2.5 MPa.
- HVAC & Heat Exchangers – Used in chiller and boiler connections to reduce stress on equipment; 316L handles glycol mixtures without corrosion.
- Marine & Shipbuilding – Seawater cooling lines and exhaust bellows; 316L provides over 10x the pitting resistance of 304 in saltwater.
Standards & Certifications
- EN 10380 – European standard for corrugated metal hose assemblies; covers dimensions, materials, pressure ratings, and testing methods.
- GB/T 32570 – Chinese national standard for stainless steel corrugated pipes; specifies technical requirements for DN10–DN150 sizes.
- ASTM A312 – Standard specification for seamless and welded austenitic stainless steel pipe; applicable to raw pipe before corrugation.
- ISO 9001 – Quality management system certification; TeCarve’s factories are ISO 9001 certified to ensure consistent production quality.
- EN 10204 3.1/3.2 – Mill test certificate type 3.1 (inspection by manufacturer) or 3.2 (third-party inspection) provided with each shipment.
FAQ
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What is the difference between 304 and 316L corrugated pipe?
304 contains 18% chromium and 8% nickel, while 316L adds 2–3% molybdenum. This molybdenum gives 316L superior resistance to chlorides and acids. In a 3.5% salt spray test per ASTM B117, 316L shows no pitting after 500 hours, whereas 304 may pit within 200 hours. -
What pressure rating does DN50 316L corrugated pipe have?
For DN50 (2-inch) 316L corrugated pipe per EN 10380, the working pressure is typically 1.0 MPa (145 psi) for standard wall, with a burst pressure of at least 3.0 MPa. Higher pressure ratings up to 2.5 MPa are available with reinforced braiding or thicker walls. -
Which grade is best for seawater?
316L is the best standard grade for seawater due to its molybdenum content (2–3%). It resists crevice corrosion and pitting in chloride environments. For continuous seawater immersion, duplex 2205 (22% Cr, 5% Ni, 3% Mo) offers even higher resistance, but 316L is cost-effective for intermittent exposure. -
What temperature range can 316L corrugated pipe handle?
316L corrugated pipe operates from -196°C to 450°C continuously. For short-term peaks, it can withstand up to 500°C. Above 450°C, creep strength decreases; for higher temperatures, consider 321 or 310S grades. -
How do I get a price quote for 316L corrugated pipe?
Contact TeCarve via email at sales@tecarve.com or WhatsApp +86 189 6804 2695. Provide the nominal size (DN10–DN150), required length, end fitting type, and quantity. A detailed quote will be sent within 24 hours. -
What is the minimum order quantity (MOQ)?
TeCarve’s standard MOQ is 100–300 kg per size and grade. Smaller trial orders can be arranged for new customers. For example, a 50-meter coil of DN25 316L corrugated pipe weighs about 150 kg, meeting the MOQ. -
Can 304 corrugated pipe be used for potable water?
Yes, 304 is commonly used for potable water systems. However, if the water has high chloride content (above 200 ppm), 316L is recommended to prevent pitting. Both grades comply with NSF/ANSI 61 for drinking water. -
What end connections are available?
TeCarve offers flanges (ANSI 150/300, DIN PN16/40), threaded NPT/BSPT ends, welded nipples, and quick couplings. For sanitary applications, tri-clamp ends are available. Custom connections can be engineered per your drawing. -
How is corrugated pipe tested for leaks?
Each assembly is hydrostatically tested at 1.5 times the design pressure per EN 10380. For example, a PN16 rated pipe is tested at 2.4 MPa. Additionally, 100% eddy current testing is performed on the corrugated tube before assembly. -
What is the lead time for a custom corrugated pipe order?
Standard lead time is 10–25 days after deposit. For custom lengths, special end fittings, or non-standard diameters, lead time may extend to 30 days. TeCarve can expedite urgent orders upon request.
Market Data
According to a 2023 industry report, the global metal bellows market is projected to grow at a CAGR of 4.5% from 2024 to 2030, driven by demand in chemical processing and oil & gas sectors. 316L stainless steel accounts for approximately 35% of corrugated pipe sales due to its balance of corrosion resistance and cost. In offshore applications, 316L corrugated pipe has a service life exceeding 20 years when properly selected.
TeCarve Stainless supplies corrugated pipe certified to EN 10380, GB/T 32570.
Sizes: DN10-DN150
Grades: 304, 304L, 316, 316L, 321, 310S, 201, 430, 904L, Duplex 2205 | MOQ: 100–300 kg (smaller trial orders available) | Lead Time: 10–25 days after deposit
Email: sales@tecarve.com
WhatsApp: +86 189 6804 2695
Website: https://tecarvepipes.com/corrugated-pipe/
Response within 24 hours.


