What Are CF8, CF8M, CF3, And CF3M Stainless Steels?

When choosing the right valve for your application, material selection is crucial for ensuring long-term performance, corrosion resistance, and safety. At [Your Company Name], a trusted valve manufacturer, we often help our clients understand the differences between common stainless steel casting materials—CF8, CF8M, CF3, and CF3M—to ensure they choose the best match for their specific environment.

Understanding CF8, CF8M, CF3, and CF3M

These material grades refer to cast austenitic stainless steels, commonly used in valve bodies, bonnets, and other pressure-containing parts. Here's a breakdown of each:

✅ CF8 – Equivalent to 304 Stainless Steel

• Carbon Content: ~0.08%

• Composition: 18% Chromium, 8% Nickel

• Equivalent Wrought Grade: 304

• Chinese Designation: ZG08Cr18Ni9

Features:
CF8 is a general-purpose stainless steel offering good corrosion resistance, high ductility, and excellent weldability. It is widely used in water, air, and non-corrosive applications.

✅ CF8M – Equivalent to 316 Stainless Steel

• Carbon Content: ~0.08%

• Composition: 18% Chromium, 10% Nickel, 2-3% Molybdenum

• Equivalent Wrought Grade: 316

• Chinese Designation: ZG08Cr18Ni12Mo2Ti

Features:
CF8M contains molybdenum (Mo), improving its resistance to chlorides, acids, and harsh chemicals. Ideal for marine environments, chemical processing, and offshore valves.

✅ CF3 – Equivalent to 304L Stainless Steel

• Carbon Content: ~0.03%

• Composition: 18% Chromium, 10% Nickel

• Equivalent Wrought Grade: 304L

• Chinese Designation: ZG03Cr18Ni10

Features:
Lower carbon content in CF3 reduces the risk of carbide precipitation during welding, making it excellent for corrosive environments and applications requiring superior weldability.

✅ CF3M – Equivalent to 316L Stainless Steel

• Carbon Content: ~0.03%

• Composition: 18% Chromium, 12% Nickel, 2-3% Molybdenum

• Equivalent Wrought Grade: 316L

• Chinese Designation: ZG03Cr18Ni12Mo2Ti

Features:
Combining low carbon and molybdenum, CF3M delivers maximum corrosion resistance, even in aggressive environments. It is the top choice for high-purity processes, pharmaceuticals, and seawater valves.

Which Stainless Steel Grade Is Right for Your Valve?

Why Choose COVNA Valves?

At COVNA, we manufacture high-quality industrial valves using precisely selected materials like CF8, CF8M, CF3, and CF3M to match your operational needs.

✅ Custom material options based on your medium and pressure
✅ ISO-certified quality control
✅ OEM & ODM available
✅ Fast delivery & global shipping

Whether you’re sourcing ball valves, gate valves, globe valves, or butterfly valves, our engineering team ensures the right material is used for maximum safety, durability, and performance.

Contact Us Today

Need help choosing the right valve material for your project? Our engineers are here to help.
Contact us now or request a free valve consultation.