1.4305 vs 1.4301 stainless steel
Oct 28, 2025
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What Are 1.4301 and 1.4305 Stainless Steels?
| Grade | EN Number | AISI Equivalent | Main Feature |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1.4301 | X5CrNi18-10 | 304 | Excellent corrosion resistance and formability |
| 1.4305 | X8CrNiS18-9 | 303 | Improved machinability with sulfur addition |
Both grades contain chromium (~18%) and nickel (~8–10%), which give them excellent oxidation and corrosion resistance. However, 1.4305 is modified with added sulfur (0.15–0.35%) to enhance machinability, making it ideal for fast machining and automatic lathes.
What is the equivalent of 1.4301 stainless steel?
The European standard stainless steel 1.4301 is equivalent to the American standard AISI 304 and the UNS S30400 grade. It is also known by its European designation X5CrNi18-10 and is sometimes referred to as "18/8" stainless steel due to its nominal composition of 18% chromium and 8% nickel.
European Standard (EN): 1.4301
European Name: X5CrNi18-10
American Standard (AISI/ASTM): 304
American Unified Numbering System (UNS): S30400
What is 1.4305 stainless steel equivalent to?
1.4305 stainless steel is equivalent to AISI 303, and also known as UNS S30300 and X8CrNiS18-9. It is a free-machining austenitic stainless steel that is known for its excellent machinability due to the addition of sulfur.
1.4305 vs 1.4301 stainless steel：Chemical Composition
| Element | 1.4301 (304) | 1.4305 (303) |
|---|---|---|
| Carbon (C) | ≤ 0.07% | ≤ 0.10% |
| Chromium (Cr) | 17.5–19.5% | 17–19% |
| Nickel (Ni) | 8–10.5% | 8–10% |
| Manganese (Mn) | ≤ 2.0% | ≤ 2.0% |
| Silicon (Si) | ≤ 1.0% | ≤ 1.0% |
| Sulfur (S) | ≤ 0.015% | 0.15–0.35% |
| Phosphorus (P) | ≤ 0.045% | ≤ 0.20% |
1.4305 vs 1.4301 stainless steel ：Mechanical Properties
| Property | 1.4301 (304) | 1.4305 (303) |
|---|---|---|
| Density | 7.9 g/cm³ | 7.9 g/cm³ |
| Tensile Strength | 500–700 MPa | 600–800 MPa |
| Yield Strength | ≥ 210 MPa | ≥ 240 MPa |
| Elongation | ≥ 45% | ≥ 35% |
| Hardness (HB) | ≤ 215 | ≤ 230 |
Corrosion Resistance Comparison
1.4301 (AISI 304) provides superior resistance to oxidation, acids, and chloride environments, making it the standard choice for food processing, chemical, and marine applications.1.4305 (AISI 303) has reduced corrosion resistance, especially in chloride or sulfuric acid environments, due to sulfur inclusions.
Which is better 1.4301 or 1.4305?
Neither is definitively better; the choice depends on the application. 1.4301 (AISI 304 or 304L) is better for its excellent weldability and corrosion resistance, while 1.4305 (AISI 303) is the superior choice for high-volume machining due to its addition of sulfur, which improves its machinability.
Can 1.4305 be welded?
It's not recommended for welding due to sulfur inclusions, which cause hot cracking. Choose 1.4301 for welded structures.
Is 1.4305 magnetic?
Both are non-magnetic in the annealed condition, but may become slightly magnetic after cold working.
At Gnee Stainless, we maintain large inventories of 1.4301 and 1.4305 stainless steel in stock, ready for immediate shipment.It can be processed into a variety of practical product forms, including plates, coils, tubes, bars, wires, etc. For detailed chemical composition and free samples, please contact our factory immediately.Email: sales@gneestainless.com
Price range: USD $2,400 – $2,800 per ton depending on size, finish, and quantity.
MOQ: 1 ton (custom sizes available).
Delivery: 7–15 working days worldwide.
Payment Terms: T/T, L/C, or other flexible options.
Gnee ensures competitive pricing, fast delivery, and mill test certification (EN 10204 3.1) with every shipment.
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