316L stainless steel pipe is an ultra-low-carbon, pure austenitic stainless steel with excellent weldability and a low likelihood of intergranular corrosion. However, due to its low thermal conductivity and high coefficient of linear expansion, welded joints of this steel generate significant tensile stresses during cooling, resulting in high welding heat input. Slow cooling rates also make it susceptible to thermal cracking, corrosion cracking, and deformation.

316L stainless steel pipe can be welded using all standard welding methods. Depending on the application, 316Cb, 316L, or 309Cb stainless steel filler rods or electrodes can be used. Among the commonly used welding methods, MIG and TIG welding require less heat input. In addition to protecting the hot metal, the argon flow also provides a certain degree of cooling, increasing the weld's crack resistance and reducing welding deformation.

Post-weld annealing is generally not required for 316L stainless steel pipe. Austenitic stainless steel generally does not require stress relief annealing after welding. This is because austenite has excellent plasticity and toughness, making post-weld stress relief annealing unnecessary to restore its properties. 

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