Is 316 stainless steel reef safe

[Lenny_S]

I've used CPC quick disconnects in the past for other applications and they are very convenient.
Their HFC12 model has a version with a spring loaded shutoff. The spring is made from 316 stainless steel and the whole fitting (including the spring) is A grade up to 100 degrees for seawater. In their chemical chart.
But has there ever been any real test of this in aquarium reef keeping?

 

[Randy Holmes-Farley Verified Community Expert]

316 stainless is a pretty good choice. I've had two float switches with 316 stainless steel arms in my system for 20 years.

That doesn't mean that some chromium or nickel hasn't come off them in that time, but a recent Triton test didn't detect elevated levels.

 

[Lenny_S]

316 stainless is a pretty good choice. I've had two float switches with 316 stainless steel arms in my system for 20 years.

That doesn't mean that some chromium or nickel hasn't come off them in that time, but a recent Triton test didn't detect elevated levels.

We can always count on you Randy!
I use them for home brewing and they are super convenient. I can switch lines around in seconds and since they have a stopper there is no leaking or mess when I disconnect/connect lines (a drop or 2 at most). So I was going to get a bunch more to use for my new 160 gallon setup. Connecting the reactors and utility pumps with them will make it much quicker and easier to do maintenance and take them in and out of the stand.
Thanks Randy.

 

[fishmommy]

316 is pretty good in salt water, especially if solution annealed and passivated. Manufacturing technique will affect the corrosion resistance of the material, so your mileage may vary.

 

[Lenny_S]

316 is pretty good in salt water, especially if solution annealed and passivated. Manufacturing technique will affect the corrosion resistance of the material, so your mileage may vary.

Thank you, yes the CPC site chemical chart lists the passivity as 100% for seawater up to 100 degrees Fahrenheit.

 

[Randy Holmes-Farley Verified Community Expert]

FWIW, not many exact products are still available 20 years later, but my float switch is. The LV1201 from Omega:

http://www.omega.com/pptst/LV1100_1200.html

 

[fishmommy]

Thank you, yes the CPC site chemical chart lists the passivity as 100% for seawater up to 100 degrees Fahrenheit.

Yep, just keep in mind that most salt mixes are more caustic than NSW.
316 is the best commonly available stainless, but it is still vulnerable depending on manufacturing method and fluid composition.
If you can avoid it, do. If not, 316 is your best bet.