304L
Data verified304L is the low-carbon version of 304, specified for welded fabrications because its carbon cap of 0.030% prevents sensitisation in the heat-affected zone. It is the default 18-8 grade for welded chemical and food plant.
Chemical composition
| Element | Content (%) |
|---|---|
| C | ≤0.030 |
| Si | ≤0.75 |
| Mn | ≤2.00 |
| P | ≤0.045 |
| S | ≤0.030 |
| Cr | 18.00–20.00 |
| Ni | 8.00–12.00 |
| 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 | 485–690 MPa |
| Yield strength | ≥170 MPa |
| Density | 7.90 g/cm³ |
Heat treatment
Solution anneal 1010–1120 °C, rapid cool. Low carbon removes the need for post-weld anneal in most service.
Equivalent grades
| Standard | Designation |
|---|---|
| din | 1.4307 |
| aisi | 304L |
| jis | SUS304L |
| gb | 022Cr19Ni10 |
Compare side by side: 304L vs 304 · 304L vs 304H
Equivalents overlap in chemistry and use but are not always identical — see our equivalents guide before substituting in certified designs.
Applications & Processing
Applications: Welded tanks and vessels, chemical process equipment, food plant, brewery equipment, exhaust systems.
Processing: Welds excellently by all standard processes without post-weld heat treatment; forming and machining as 304.
FAQ
- Is 304L weaker than 304?
- Slightly: its minimum yield and tensile values are a little lower because of the low carbon, which is why dual-certified 304/304L material is common.
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Ask for a quotationVisit NasteelSource: 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.