304 vs 304L — what is the difference?

Only carbon: 304 allows up to 0.08% C, 304L is capped at 0.030% C. The low carbon of 304L prevents chromium-carbide sensitisation in welds, so 304L is preferred for welded construction.

Essentially non-magnetic when annealed; cold work (bending, drawing) can make it slightly magnetic through deformation martensite.

Grades · Stainless Steel · 304

304

Data verified

304 is the most widely used stainless steel in the world, an 18-8 austenitic grade balancing corrosion resistance, formability and weldability. It covers the majority of food, architectural and general industrial applications.

Hardness≤187 HB (annealed)

DIN1.4301

AISI304

JISSUS304

CategoryStainless Steel

Chemical composition

Element	Content (%)
C	≤0.08
Si	≤0.75
Mn	≤2.00
P	≤0.045
S	≤0.030
Cr	18.00–20.00
Ni	8.00–10.50
N	≤0.10

Weight percent, per the governing standard ranges. Actual values per heat are on the mill certificate.

Properties

Delivery condition	Annealed
Hardness	≤187 HB (annealed)
Tensile strength	515–720 MPa
Yield strength	≥205 MPa
Density	7.90 g/cm³

Heat treatment

Solution anneal 1010–1120 °C, rapid cool (water quench for heavier sections). Not hardenable by heat treatment.

Equivalent grades

Standard	Designation
din	1.4301
aisi	304
jis	SUS304
gb	06Cr19Ni10

Compare side by side: 304 vs 304L · 304 vs 304H · 304 vs 302

Equivalents overlap in chemistry and use but are not always identical — see our equivalents guide before substituting in certified designs.

Applications & Processing

Applications: Food and beverage equipment, kitchen ware, chemical containers, architectural panels, tubing, fasteners.

Processing: Excellent deep drawing and welding; work hardens during forming; use sharp tooling and rigid setups for machining. Welded heavy sections may sensitise — use 304L there.

FAQ

304 vs 304L — what is the difference?: Only carbon: 304 allows up to 0.08% C, 304L is capped at 0.030% C. The low carbon of 304L prevents chromium-carbide sensitisation in welds, so 304L is preferred for welded construction.
Is 304 magnetic?: Essentially non-magnetic when annealed; cold work (bending, drawing) can make it slightly magnetic through deformation martensite.

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Source: ASTM A240 / EN 10088 published ranges · Last updated 2026-11-03. Data is indicative — verify critical values against the governing standard and mill certificate before use.