304 or 316 tube

[goboatingnow]

Im building a boat step that hangs over the side when the boat is on the pontoon, its a fairly simple pipe based affair, couple of TIG welds etc.

Could I get away with 304 tube, some have argued for 316 , but its 2x the price.

thanks

Dave

[Wotname]

IMO, 304 is Ok for that job

[Cotemar]

316 SS is the way to go below the water line. 304 SS is stronger, but will get pretty rusty looking.

[Sandero]

316 for the marine environment.

[goboatingnow]

see there the opinions problem, Note the step will not be exposed to the 'sea' as it will remain behind at the dock, it will just be on the boat at the dock, But I dont want it to rust and look a mess at the same time.


thanks for opinions so far
dave

[Cotemar]

Originally Posted by goboatingnow

see there the opinions problem, Note the step will not be exposed to the 'sea' as it will remain behind at the dock, it will just be on the boat at the dock, But I dont want it to rust and look a mess at the same time.


thanks for opinions so far
dave

Oh, sorry. If its not getting wet and just for the dock than yes 304ss step is just dandy

[Jim Cate]

Dave, consider that the stanchions and pulpits on most boats are fabbed out of 304... they seem to do ok!

If you can get the step electropolished after the welding is done surface corrosion will be reduced for some considerable while.

Cheers,

Jim