904l stainless steel vs 316l: creep resistance
Jul 08, 2025
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904L stainless steel Creep resistance is the ability of a material to resist deformation when subjected to constant stress at elevated temperatures. Creep resistance is critical for industries such as chemical processing, power generation, pressure vessel fabrication, and heat exchangers, especially at temperatures exceeding 500°C (932°F).
Two common stainless steel grades, 316L and 904L, are often compared in these demanding applications. While both are austenitic grades with good corrosion resistance, they differ significantly in their long-term strength at elevated temperatures.
What is 904L Stainless Steel?
904L stainless steel is a high-alloy, austenitic stainless steel known for its exceptional resistance to strong acids, chloride environments, and pitting corrosion. It contains high levels of nickel (23–28%), chromium (19–23%), molybdenum (4–5%), and copper (1–2%), making it ideal for aggressive chemical and marine applications such as sulfuric acid handling, seawater systems, and heat exchangers.
What is 316L Stainless Steel?
316L stainless steel is a low-carbon austenitic stainless steel widely used for its excellent corrosion resistance, especially against chlorides and mildly acidic environments. With 2–3% molybdenum, it outperforms 304 in marine and chemical processing conditions. Its low carbon content (≤0.03%) improves weldability and reduces the risk of intergranular corrosion after welding.
904l stainless steel vs 316l: Chemical Composition Comparison
(Typical values per ASTM standards)
| Element | 316L (UNS S31603) | 904L (UNS N08904) |
|---|---|---|
| Carbon (C) | ≤ 0.03% | ≤ 0.02% |
| Chromium (Cr) | 16.0–18.0% | 19.0–23.0% |
| Nickel (Ni) | 10.0–14.0% | 23.0–28.0% |
| Molybdenum (Mo) | 2.0–3.0% | 4.0–5.0% |
| Copper (Cu) | - | 1.0–2.0% |
| Manganese (Mn) | ≤ 2.0% | ≤ 2.0% |
| Silicon (Si) | ≤ 1.0% | ≤ 1.0% |
| Phosphorus (P) | ≤ 0.045% | ≤ 0.035% |
| Sulfur (S) | ≤ 0.030% | ≤ 0.035% |
| Nitrogen (N) | ≤ 0.10% | ≤ 0.10% |
904l stainless steel vs 316l: Mechanical Properties Comparison
(In annealed condition, per ASTM A240 / A276)
| Property | 316L Stainless Steel | 904L Stainless Steel |
|---|---|---|
| Tensile Strength (MPa) | ≥ 485 | ≥ 490 |
| Yield Strength (0.2% MPa) | ≥ 170 | ≥ 220 |
| Elongation (% in 50mm) | ≥ 40% | ≥ 35% |
| Hardness (HBW) | ≤ 217 | ≤ 220 |
| Density (g/cm³) | 7.93 | 8.00 |
| Modulus of Elasticity | ~193 GPa | ~195 GPa |
| Max Service Temp (Oxid.) | ~870°C (short-term) | ~450–500°C (recommended) |
904l stainless steel vs 316l: key difference
904L Stainless Steel vs 316L: Creep Resistance
904L offers better creep resistance than 316L due to its higher alloy content and enhanced structural stability at elevated temperatures. While 316L performs well below 425°C, 904L maintains mechanical strength for longer durations under sustained stress up to 450–500°C, making it a more suitable choice for pressure vessels or heat-exposed equipment requiring long-term dimensional stability.
Which has better corrosion resistance, 904L or 316L?
904L significantly outperforms 316L in corrosion resistance, especially in harsh environments containing sulfuric acid, hydrochloric acid, or chlorides. Thanks to its higher levels of nickel, molybdenum, and the addition of copper, 904L provides superior protection against pitting, crevice corrosion, and stress corrosion cracking. It is ideal for chemical processing and marine applications where 316L may fail over time.
904L Stainless Steel vs 316L: Hardness
Both 904L and 316L are relatively soft in the annealed condition, with Brinell hardness values typically below 220 HB. However, 904L tends to be slightly harder due to its higher alloy content, offering better wear resistance under abrasive or mechanical contact. For applications where slight improvements in hardness and surface durability are required, 904L has a marginal advantage.
Is 904L stronger than 316L at high temperatures?
904L has better creep resistance and maintains strength longer at elevated temperatures (up to 500°C), making it more suitable for heat exchanger shells and pressure equipment in thermal service.
Is 904L stainless steel more expensive than 316L?
Yes, 904L is a high-alloy stainless steel and typically costs more than 316L due to its higher nickel and molybdenum content. However, its superior performance can reduce maintenance and replacement costs in corrosive environments.
904L Stainless Steel Supplier - GNEE
We supply 904L and 316L stainless steel in:Plates, pipes, bars, flanges
With EN 10204 3.1 / 3.2 certificates, and compliance to ASTM A240, A312, A276, and NACE MR0175
Contact our materials team for technical advice, creep performance data sheets, or a custom quotation based on your design conditions.
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