The difference between stainless 304 and 304L

Release time:

2024-12-26

There are significant differences between stainless steel 304 and 304L in many aspects. The following is a detailed comparative analysis:

1. Chemical composition
304 stainless steel: carbon content ≤0.08%, with more than 18% chromium (Cr) and more than 8% nickel (Ni). The ratio of these elements gives 304 stainless steel good corrosion resistance and processing properties.
304L stainless steel: It is an ultra-low carbon stainless steel with a carbon content of ≤0.03%. The content range of other elements such as chromium and nickel is similar to that of 304 stainless steel, but the specific proportions may be slightly different, such as Ni content range of 8.00%12.00%, Cr content range of 18.00%20.00%.

2. Mechanical properties
304 stainless steel: has moderate mechanical properties, tensile strength ≥485MPa, yield strength ≥205N/mm², elongation ≥40%, hardness HB ≤187, HRB ≤90, HV ≤200.
304L stainless steel: The mechanical properties are similar to those of 304 stainless steel, but due to the reduced carbon content, 304L stainless steel can better prevent intergranular corrosion after welding, thereby improving its overall corrosion resistance.

3. Corrosion resistance
304 stainless steel: It has good corrosion resistance and is widely used in the industrial and furniture decoration industries as well as the food and medical industries. However, in certain specific environments, such as high temperature or highly corrosive media, its corrosion resistance may be limited.
304L stainless steel: After welding or after stress relief, its resistance to intergranular corrosion is particularly good. This makes 304L stainless steel particularly suitable for occasions that require welding, such as outdoor open-air machines in the chemical, coal, and petroleum industries, and heat-resistant parts of building materials.

4. Price
304 stainless steel: The price is relatively low and it is one of the more common stainless steel materials on the market.
304L stainless steel: The price is usually higher than 304 stainless steel, which is mainly due to its lower carbon content and better corrosion resistance.

5. Application fields
304 stainless steel: Due to its good comprehensive performance (corrosion resistance and formability), 304 stainless steel is widely used in the manufacture of various equipment and parts, such as food processing equipment, building decoration materials, etc.
304L stainless steel: In addition to the wide application of 304 stainless steel, 304L stainless steel is also particularly suitable for large-scale welding structural materials and pipe fittings that need to be used directly after welding.

In summary, there are significant differences between stainless steel 304 and 304L in terms of chemical composition, mechanical properties, corrosion resistance, price and application fields. When selecting and using, reasonable selection should be made according to the specific use environment and requirements.

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