304 / 304L
UNS S30400 / S30403
Tensile Strength
≥ 515 MPa (75 ksi)
Yield Strength (0.2%)
≥ 205 MPa (30 ksi)
Elongation
≥ 40%
Hardness
≤ 90 HRB / ≤ 201 HB
Overview
The most widely used austenitic stainless steel. Grade 304 offers excellent corrosion resistance in a wide range of environments. 304L (low carbon) provides improved weldability and resistance to intergranular corrosion after welding. Ideal for general industrial piping, food processing equipment, and architectural applications.
Chemical Composition (wt%)
| Element | Min | Max |
|---|---|---|
| C (Carbon) | — | 0.08 |
| Mn (Manganese) | — | 2 |
| Si (Silicon) | — | 0.75 |
| P (Phosphorus) | — | 0.045 |
| S (Sulfur) | — | 0.03 |
| Cr (Chromium) | 18 | 20 |
| Ni (Nickel) | 8 | 10.5 |
| N (Nitrogen) | — | 0.1 |
Mechanical Properties
| Property | Value | Condition |
|---|---|---|
| Tensile Strength | ≥ 515 MPa (75 ksi) | — |
| Yield Strength (0.2%) | ≥ 205 MPa (30 ksi) | — |
| Elongation | ≥ 40% | — |
| Hardness | ≤ 90 HRB / ≤ 201 HB | annealed |
| Density | 8.0 g/cm³ | — |
Physical Properties
| Property | Value |
|---|---|
| Melting Range | 1400 – 1450 °C |
| Thermal Conductivity | 16.2 W/m·K (at 100°C) |
| Electrical Resistivity | 0.72 µΩ·m (at 20°C) |
Corrosion Resistance
Excellent in oxidizing environments, fresh water, and mildly acidic conditions. Resistant to nitric acid and many organic chemicals. Susceptible to pitting and crevice corrosion in chloride environments above ~50°C. Not recommended for seawater or prolonged chloride exposure.
Typical Applications
Oil & gas process pipingFood & beverage processingChemical transportWater treatmentGeneral industrial pipingPharmaceutical equipment
Related Standards
ASTM A312ASTM A240ASTM A276ASTM A269ASME SA-312EN 1.4301 / 1.4307
Available Products in This Material
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