316 vs 304 vs Inconel

Why use 316L vs 304 or Inconel?

We believe 316L stainless is the best choice for any type of automotive shielding, while Inconel may offer more resilient high heat handling and strength properties we don't think there is any situation where the material is warranted, specially at over twice the cost of 316L.

316L is a low carbon variant of 316 stainless steel, meaning it is less prone to work hardening from use and more resilient to constant heat cycles.

316L also offers superior salt corrosion resistance vs 304 making it ideal for underbody shielding, it is also superior to aluminum for underbody shielding as there is no galvanic corrosion occurring at fastener mounting locations, if any galvanic action occurs the carbon steel fasteners will act as the anode and corrode before the stainless steel. It's cheaper to replace a fastener than an entire piece of shielding.