316L stainless contains molybdenum and resists chlorides and salts better, so it is the usual choice for pharma, acidic or salty food and aggressive cleaning. 304 is cheaper and suits water, storage and most ordinary food products. Beyond the steel grade, check the volume, connections, jacket, agitator and surface condition.
Both are austenitic stainless steels. 316L adds about 2% to 3% molybdenum, which improves resistance to pitting corrosion from chlorides. The L means low carbon, which reduces corrosion at welds. In pharma and biotech, 316L is the norm for product-contact parts.
Not always. 304 is enough for most food products; 316L is used for acidic or salty food and for pharma.
A tank where a production step happens, such as mixing, heating or cooling, so it usually has a jacket, an agitator, fittings and controls.
Yes. IHD Taub buys stainless steel tanks, process tanks and silos, paid upfront, including dismantling and removal.