Joe Cell Construction - Sourcing 316L Stainless and preconditioning routines

I am starting my Joe Cell build. Sourcing 316L seamless stainless steel cylinders in the sizes recommended by Alex Schiffer (1, 2, 3, 4, 5 inches). The local supplier only has 304 stainless steel. Will 304 work, or does the magnetic permeability of 316 make a difference?

Do NOT use 304 stainless. It contains too much iron and will magnetize easily, which ruins the cell's accumulator capability. 316L has low magnetic permeability and is highly corrosion-resistant. Also, make sure to clean the tubes with citric acid or acetic acid—never use hydrochloric acid, as it destroys the surface oxide structure.

Agreed. The conditioning routine is also crucial. You need to apply a small DC charge (12V at 1-2 amps) to the cell for 24-48 hours. The water should turn a light gray, and a thin oxide film will coat the inside of the tubes. This acts as the catalytic gate. Do not let dust or skin oils get on the cylinders during assembly.