What are the typical applications of 1.4620 ?

Apr 02, 2026

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1.4620 stainless steel, commonly known as 434 or UNS S43400, is a molybdenum-alloyed ferritic stainless steel that offers enhanced corrosion resistance compared to standard 430, particularly in chloride-containing environments. With its molybdenum addition and balanced chemistry, it provides a cost-effective alternative to austenitic grades for applications requiring good corrosion resistance and formability. It is widely used in automotive trim, kitchen equipment, and architectural applications where exposure to road salt, food acids, or mild chemicals is expected.

Standard	Equivalent Grade
EN (Europe)	1.4620
ASTM/AISI (USA)	434, UNS S43400
JIS (Japan)	SUS434
Common Name	434

Element	C	Si	Mn	P	S	Cr	Mo
Content (%)	≤ 0.12	≤ 1.0	≤ 1.0	≤ 0.04	≤ 0.03	16.0 - 18.0	0.75 - 1.25

Property	Yield Strength (Rp0.2)	Tensile Strength (Rm)	Elongation (A)	Hardness (HB)
Typical Value	≥ 240 MPa	450 - 600 MPa	≥ 22%	≤ 200

Enhanced Chloride Resistance: The molybdenum addition (0.75-1.25%) provides significantly better resistance to pitting and crevice corrosion in chloride environments compared to standard 430.

Good Formability: Maintains good ductility and formability, suitable for bending, drawing, and forming operations.

Magnetic and Cost-Effective: Strongly magnetic and more economical than nickel-containing austenitic grades, offering a balance of performance and cost.

Good Oxidation Resistance: Adequate resistance to oxidation at elevated temperatures up to about 700°C.

Automotive Trim: Exterior trim, moldings, and decorative components requiring resistance to road salt.

Kitchen Equipment: Sinks, countertops, and food preparation surfaces exposed to food acids.

Architectural Applications: Roofing, gutters, and downspouts in coastal or de-icing salt environments.

Catering Equipment: Commercial kitchen equipment and food handling systems.

Heat Exchangers: Components in applications with mild chloride exposure.

Appliance Components: Parts requiring enhanced corrosion resistance in dishwasher and laundry equipment.

434 offers significantly better corrosion resistance than 430 due to its molybdenum addition, particularly in chloride-containing environments like road salt and coastal atmospheres. While 430 may show pitting in these conditions, 434 provides enhanced protection. Compared to 304, 434 offers similar corrosion resistance in many environments but is less expensive and more price-stable due to its lower nickel content (no nickel addition). However, 434 does not match 304's corrosion resistance in highly aggressive environments and is magnetic. It is often chosen as a cost-effective alternative to 304 for applications where the highest corrosion resistance is not required but where 430 is insufficient.

Welding 434 can be more challenging than austenitic grades due to its ferritic structure. Key considerations include:

Low heat input welding techniques are recommended to minimize grain growth in the heat-affected zone

Preheating (150-200°C) may be beneficial for thicker sections

Austenitic filler metals (309L or 316L) are recommended for better weld ductility

Post-weld annealing may be required to restore ductility for critical applications

Resistance welding is often preferred for thin gauge applications

For decorative applications, laser welding may provide minimal heat-affected zone and good surface finish

434 is suitable for service up to approximately 700°C (1290°F) for continuous operation. It maintains good oxidation resistance within this range. For applications requiring higher temperature capability, grades with higher chromium content (such as 446) may be more suitable. At elevated temperatures, 434 retains good strength and resists scaling, making it suitable for exhaust system components and heat exchangers operating at moderate temperatures.

GNEE Steel supplies cost-effective 434 (1.4620) stainless steel in sheet, coil, and strip forms, ideal for automotive trim, kitchen equipment, and architectural applications requiring enhanced corrosion resistance. We provide full material certification (EN 10204 3.1) and processing support including cutting, bending, deep drawing, and surface finishing services. If you have any requirements, please feel free to contact us.