316L stainless steel is a variant of 316 stainless steel with a lower carbon content and is used where welding is required. The lower carbon content minimizes the precipitation of carbides in the heat-affected zone close to the weld, and the precipitation of carbides may cause intergranular corrosion of stainless steel in certain environments. Basically, using 316L eliminates the need to anneal weld joints prior to using the completed metal form, saving time and effort. 316L stainless steel is the second most widely used stainless steel after 304, and its corrosion resistance is better than 304. High temperature resistance is also better, up to 1000 degrees.