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In the design and material selection of electric fence polywire, 304 stainless steel wire and 316 stainless steel wire have become the core choices in different scenarios due to their performance differences. The following is a comparative analysis from the aspects of composition characteristics, corrosion resistance, mechanical properties, economy, practical application, etc.
Composition and corrosion resistance
304 stainless steel wire is based on 18% chromium (Cr) and 8% nickel (Ni). It relies on the oxide film formed by chromium elements to resist water vapor and weak acid corrosion in the atmospheric environment. It is suitable for dry or seasonal humid environments such as ordinary farmland and inland pastures. Its corrosion resistance can meet most conventional needs, but it is prone to pitting or rust in high salt spray (such as coastal areas) or strong acid environments (such as around chemical plants).
316 stainless steel wire adds 2% molybdenum (Mo) to 304 and increases the nickel content to 10%. The addition of molybdenum significantly enhances the material's resistance to chlorides (such as seawater, snow-melting salt) and sulfides (such as industrial waste gas), especially in humid, high-salinity coastal or tropical rainforest areas. Its oxide film is denser and can resist crevice corrosion and stress corrosion cracking for a long time, becoming the "king of corrosion resistance" in harsh environments.
Mechanical and electrical properties
The mechanical strength of the two is similar. The tensile strength of 304 stainless steel is 520-750 MPa, and that of 316 stainless steel is 520-690 MPa, both of which can meet the tensile strength requirements of electric fences (usually ≥400 N). However, due to the higher nickel content and molybdenum element, 316 has slightly better ductility (elongation at break ≥45%) and is more resilient under repeated stress or extreme temperatures.
In terms of conductivity, stainless steel is not an ideal conductor (304 conductivity is about 2.5% IACS, 316 is about 2.3% IACS), but the overall current carrying capacity can be improved through a 3-9-strand braided structure. For example, 9 strands of 1.2mm diameter 316 stainless steel wire, combined with a 10 kV pulse generator, are sufficient to transmit effective electric shock signals in a 100-meter fence.
Economic efficiency and applicable scenarios
The cost of 304 stainless steel is about US$2,000-2,500/ton. Due to its mature technology and wide supply, it has become a cost-effective choice for non-corrosive environments such as inland pastures and urban suburbs. Typical applications include:
3-6 strands of braided wire: used for small and medium-sized pastures (such as sheep and pig protection), with low initial cost (about US$300-400 for 500 meters) and a lifespan of 8-10 years.
7 or more strands of braided wire: for animals with strong impact such as wild boars and deer, the conductivity shortcomings are compensated by increasing the number of strands.
316 stainless steel is relatively expensive (US$3,000-4,000/ton), but its long life in corrosive environments can reduce long-term maintenance costs. For example:
Coastal farms: 9-strand 1.2mm diameter 316 stainless steel PE wire can be maintained for 15 years without replacement under salt spray erosion, and the average annual cost is lower than the galvanized steel solution with frequent maintenance.
Industrial area fence: Tolerate acidic gases emitted by chemical plants to avoid conductive failure caused by rust.
Key points for selection decision
Environmental corrosion:
If the fence is exposed to seawater, snow-melting salt or industrial pollutants, 316 stainless steel must be selected;
304 stainless steel can be selected for ordinary inland dry environment to reduce costs.
Animal type and fence strength:
For large animals (cattle, horses) or scenes with high impact protection requirements, it is recommended to use a 7-9-strand braided structure, and high-carbon steel wire can be mixed to enhance tensile properties if necessary.
Budget and maintenance cycle:
304 stainless steel is preferred for short-term projects (<5 years);
316 stainless steel is recommended for long-term facilities (>10 years). Although the initial investment is high, the cost of frequent replacement can be saved.
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