304L Stainless Steel
As a leading 304L stainless steel manufacturer and supplier, Huaxiao-Alloy combines decades of metallurgical expertise with cutting-edge production capabilities to deliver high-performance stainless steel solutions. This guide provides an in-depth analysis of 304L stainless steel, covering its applications, supply forms, chemical composition, mechanical and physical properties, and answers to industry FAQs.
Our Supply Forms & Dimensions
As a premier 304L stainless steel supplier, Huaxiao-Alloy provides the alloy in versatile forms:
| Form | Dimensions | Standards |
|---|---|---|
| Sheets/Plates | Thickness: 0.5mm–100mm; Width: 600–2000mm | ASTM A240, EN 1.4306 |
| Coils | Thickness: 0.3–6mm; Width: 10–1500mm | JIS SUS304L, GB/T 3280 |
| Bars/Rods | Diameter: 5mm–500mm; Length: 1–12m | ASTM A479, ASTM A276 |
| Tubes/Pipes | OD: 6–1200mm; Wall Thickness: 0.5–50mm | ASTM A312, ASTM A269 |
| Wire | Diameter: 0.1–10mm | ASTM A580, DIN 17440 |
Custom tolerances and finishes (e.g., 2B, BA, No.4) available.
What is 304L Stainless Steel?
304L stainless steel (UNS S30403) is a low-carbon variant of the popular 304 alloy. With a maximum carbon content of 0.03%, it offers superior resistance to intergranular corrosion, especially after welding or high-temperature exposure. Huaxiao-Alloy specializes in supplying 304L stainless steel across industries, ensuring compliance with global standards like ASTM A240 and EN 1.4306.
Applications of 304L Stainless Steel
Key Industrial Uses
- Chemical & Petrochemical: Ideal for tanks, pipelines, and reactors due to its resistance to acidic and chloride-rich environments.
- Pharmaceutical Equipment: Non-reactive surface meets hygienic requirements for storage and processing systems.
- Welded Components: Reduced carbide precipitation makes it perfect for heavy-welded structures (e.g., pressure vessels).
- Architecture: Used in coastal areas for facades and structural supports thanks to enhanced corrosion resistance.
- Food & Beverage: Suitable for fermentation tanks, brewing systems, and conveyor belts.
Chemical Composition of 304L stainless steel
The low-carbon chemistry of 304L stainless steel ensures exceptional weldability and corrosion resistance:
| Element | Content (%) | Role |
|---|---|---|
| Chromium (Cr) | 18.0–20.0 | Forms a passive oxide layer. |
| Nickel (Ni) | 8.0–12.0 | Stabilizes austenitic structure. |
| Carbon (C) | ≤0.03 | Minimizes carbide precipitation. |
| Manganese (Mn) | ≤2.0 | Enhances strength and ductility. |
| Silicon (Si) | ≤1.0 | Acts as a deoxidizer. |
| Phosphorus (P) | ≤0.045 | Reduces brittleness. |
| Sulfur (S) | ≤0.03 | Improves machinability. |
| Iron (Fe) | Balance | Base metal. |
Complies with ASTM A240, EN 1.4306, and JIS SUS304L specifications.
Mechanical Properties of 304L stainless steel
304L stainless steel balances strength and ductility:
| Property | Value |
|---|---|
| Tensile Strength | 485–690 MPa |
| Yield Strength (0.2% offset) | 170 MPa (min) |
| Elongation (50mm gauge) | 40% (min) |
| Hardness (Brinell) | 201 HB (max) |
| Modulus of Elasticity | 193 GPa |
Note: Annealing at 1010–1120°C optimizes corrosion resistance.
Physical Properties of 304L stainless steel
| Property | Value |
|---|---|
| Density | 8,000 kg/m³ |
| Melting Point | 1400–1450°C |
| Thermal Conductivity | 16.2 W/m·K (at 100°C) |
| Electrical Resistivity | 0.72 μΩ·m |
| Magnetic Permeability | <1.02 (Annealed) |
304L vs 304 Stainless Steel: Key Differences
| Parameter | 304L | 304 |
|---|---|---|
| Carbon Content | ≤0.03% | ≤0.08% |
| Weldability | Excellent | Good (requires post-weld annealing) |
| Intergranular Corrosion Resistance | Superior | Moderate |
| Typical Applications | Welded structures, high-temperature environments | General-purpose uses (e.g., kitchen equipment) |
Why Huaxiao-Alloy is Your Trusted 304L Supplier
- Custom fabrication (cutting, bending, welding).
- Compliance with ASTM, EN, JIS, and GB standards.
- Third-party testing and material traceability.
- End-to-End Solutions: From raw material sourcing to precision machining.
- Global Reach: Timely delivery to Europe, North America, and Asia-Pacific.
- Quality Assurance: Rigorous testing (spectral analysis, hardness tests, corrosion checks).
- Sustainability: Eco-conscious production with recycled scrap metal.
304L is preferred for welded components or high-temperature applications where carbide precipitation could compromise corrosion resistance.
Yes, at moderate concentrations and temperatures. Consult Huaxiao-Alloy’s corrosion resistance charts for specifics.
Annealed 304L is non-magnetic. Cold working may induce slight magnetism.
Options include 2B (smooth), BA (bright annealed), No.4 (brushed), and custom polishing.
Yes, including Mill Test Reports (MTRs), ISO 9001:2015, and PED 2014/68/EU.
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