EN 1.4307 (SUS304H): High-Carbon Stainless Steel Properties

Key Characteristics of EN 1.4307 (304L)

Type: Low Carbon Austenitic Stainless Steel (often called 304L).

Composition: Contains ~18% Chromium (Cr) and 8% Nickel (Ni) (18/8), with low carbon for improved weldability.

Corrosion Resistance: Excellent resistance to rust, air, acids, pitting, and crevice corrosion, even better than titanium-stabilized grades.

Mechanical Properties (Typical): Tensile Strength 480-720 MPa, Elongation 45%+, Hardness ≤ 215 HB, Density ~7.9 g/cm³.

Temperature Suitability: Good for cryogenic to moderate temperatures (up to ~550°C), but 304H is preferred for higher continuous use.

Weldability: Superior to 304/304H due to low carbon, avoiding carbide precipitation.

Key Characteristics of SUS304H (304H)

Type: High Carbon Variant of 304, designed for high temperatures.

Application: Used for continuous service at high temperatures where strength retention is crucial.

Key Differences: 304L vs. 304H

Carbon Content: 304L (1.4307) is low-carbon for welding; 304H is high-carbon for high-temp strength.

Weldability: 304L is better.

High Temp Use: 304H is better.

Common Applications (Both Types)

Food & Beverage (sinks, brewing, milk processing).

Kitchenware (saucepans, benches).

Architectural (panels, railings).

Chemical Containers & Equipment.

In Summary: While you asked for "high-carbon," EN 1.4307 is the low-carbon 304L, excellent for welding, whereas 304H (not 1.4307) is the high-carbon version for high-temperature strength, both derived from the widely used 304 stainless steel.