304L Stainless Steel: Low-Carbon Solution For Optimal Weldability

Overview: 304L is the low-carbon variant of 304 stainless steel, with the "L" standing for "Low Carbon". It retains the core performance of 304 while minimizing carbon content to enhance intergranular corrosion resistance, especially after welding, eliminating the need for post-weld annealing in most applications.

Chemical Composition (wt%): Chromium (Cr): 18.0-20.0; Nickel (Ni): 8.0-12.0; Carbon (C): ≤0.03; Manganese (Mn): ≤2.00; Silicon (Si): ≤1.00; Phosphorus (P): ≤0.045; Sulfur (S): ≤0.030; Iron (Fe): Balance.

Typical Mechanical Properties (Annealed Condition): Tensile Strength: ≥485 MPa; Yield Strength: ≥170 MPa; Elongation: ≥40%; Hardness (Brinell): ≤201 HB.

Core Advantages: Superior intergranular corrosion resistance post-welding; no need for post-weld heat treatment for most welded components; good formability and weldability; excellent toughness at ambient and cryogenic temperatures; maintains similar corrosion resistance to 304 in mild environments.

Applications: Large-diameter pipelines, chemical processing vessels, heat exchangers, marine and coastal structural parts, heavy-gauge welded components (where post-weld annealing is impractical), and low-temperature equipment.

Equivalent Grades: UNS S30403; EN 1.4306; JIS SUS304L; GB/T 022Cr19Ni10.

Stainless Steel Suppliers

If you have project requirements for stainless steel, we welcome your order. GNEE has a large inventory of popular products for you to choose from. It can be processed into various practical product forms, including plates, coils, tubes, bars, wires, etc. For detailed chemical composition information and free samples, please contact our factory immediately. We offer competitive prices and excellent service.Email: info@gneestainless.com

 

Testing and Documentation: Factory test certificate, EN 10204 3.1, chemical report, mechanical report, destructive testing report, non-destructive testing report, PMI test report, visual inspection report, third-party inspection report, NABL certified laboratory report.
Packaging: Wooden crate packaging, bubble wrap packaging, steel strapping, or packaging according to customer requirements.