Welding ApplicationsThe low carbon (≤0.03%) in 304L prevents chromium carbide precipitation (sensitization) in the heat-affected zone (HAZ) during welding.Avoids intergranular corrosion (a risk in standard 304 if not post-weld annealed).Eliminates the need for post-weld annealing, saving time/costs
Welding Applications
The low carbon (≤0.03%) in 304L prevents chromium carbide precipitation (sensitization) in the heat-affected zone (HAZ) during welding.
Avoids intergranular corrosion (a risk in standard 304 if not post-weld annealed).
Eliminates the need for post-weld annealing, saving time/costs.
Corrosion Resistance
Performs identically to 304 in most environments (e.g., food, chemicals, marine).
Superior in welded structures exposed to corrosive media (e.g., acids, chlorides).
Mechanical Properties
304L has slightly lower tensile strength (485 MPa vs. 515 MPa for 304) due to reduced carbon.
Ductility and formability remain excellent for both grades.
Applications of 304L Stainless Steel Coil
Food & Beverage Industry: Tanks, piping, conveyors (sanitary welding critical).
Architectural: Welded structural components, facades, roofing.
Automotive: Exhaust systems, fuel lines (where welding is frequent).
Chemical/Pharma: Storage tanks, reactors (resists intergranular corrosion).
Medical Devices: Surgical instruments, sterile equipment.
When to Use 304 Instead of 304L?
For high-temperature applications (e.g., heat exchangers), standard 304’s slightly higher carbon improves creep resistance.
If welding is minimal or post-weld annealing is feasible, 304 may suffice.
Standards & Certifications
ASTM A240 (plate/sheet/coil)
EN 1.4307 (304L equivalent in EU)
UNS S30403 (304L designation)
304L is preferred for welded structures where corrosion resistance in the HAZ is critical, while 304 offers marginal strength advantages in non-welded or high-temp scenarios. Both are austenitic, non-magnetic, and widely used across industries.
Product Parameters
Product Name | 304L Stainless Steel Coil |
Type | Steel Coil |
Thickness | 2.5mm-10.0mm |
Length | 2000mm, 2440mm, 3000mm, 5800mm, 6000mm, etc. |
Width | 610mm-2000mm |
Standard | ASTM, AISI, JIS, GB, DIN, EN, etc. |
Surface | BA, 2B, NO.1, NO.4, 4K, HL, 8K, etc. |
Scope of Application | Widely used in high temperature and electrical industry, medical equipment construction, chemical, food industry, agriculture and ship parts, food and beverage packaging, Kitchen supplies, trains, airplanes, conveyor belts, vehicles, bolts, nuts, springs and screens, etc. |
Certificate | ISO, SGS, BV, etc. |
Production Technology | Hot Rolling, Cold Rolling |
Edge Processing | Edging, Trimming |
Property | 304 Stainless Steel | 304L Stainless Steel |
---|---|---|
Carbon Content | ≤0.08% | ≤0.03% (reduced for welding) |
Chromium (Cr) | 18–20% | 18–20% |
Nickel (Ni) | 8–10.5% | 8–12% |
Key Advantage | Higher strength at high temps | Superior weldability (no carbide precipitation) |
Corrosion Resistance | Excellent (general use) | Slightly better in welded zones (no sensitization) |
Common Forms | Coil, sheet, plate, bar | Coil, sheet, plate (welding-focused) |