Based on our previous discussion of hot runner bolt material selection and suitable application scenarios for different materials, the core differences between 304 and 316 stainless steel hot runner bolts are as follows:
I. Differences in Core Material Composition
304 Stainless Steel: Contains no molybdenum, contains approximately 8% nickel, and meets basic rust prevention standards.
316 Stainless Steel: Contains 2%~3% molybdenum, contains approximately 10% nickel, and significantly improves corrosion resistance.
II. Differences in Performance
Temperature Resistance: 304 has a long-term temperature resistance limit of approximately 200℃, while 316 can reach 250℃, exhibiting superior creep resistance at high temperatures.
Corrosion Resistance: 316 can withstand corrosive plastic materials, while 304 is prone to rusting and jamming with prolonged contact.
Mechanical Strength: 316 exhibits stronger high-temperature structural stability and is less prone to stripping and breakage. III. Cost and Applicable Scenarios
Procurement Cost: The price of a single 316 stainless steel piece is approximately 1.5 to 2 times that of 304 stainless steel, making it more cost-effective.
Applicable Scenarios: 304 stainless steel is only suitable for low-load, room-temperature hot runner systems, while 316 stainless steel is suitable for the vast majority of conventional industrial hot runner systems.
The core price difference between the two mainly comes from the addition of molybdenum; the overall user experience of 316 is far superior to that of 304 stainless steel.

