Can Stainless Sprockets Work in Coastal or Humid Areas? 201 vs 304 vs 316 Corrosion Guide
Material choice for humid/coastal sites depends on chloride exposure:
201 SS: fine for light humidity without salt mist; prone to pitting rust in sea air.
304 SS: reliable for normal outdoor rain and washdown; short-term coastal use is possible with good protection.
316 SS: molybdenum-alloyed grade with strong chloride resistance, best for coastal, chemical, or constant-wet environments.
If equipment stays idle outdoors in salt mist, 316 is the safest option.