EVERBRIGHT

Type 304 has slightly lower strength than 302 due to its lower carbon content. Type 304 finds extensive use in welding applications because the low carbon permits some exposure in the carbide precipitation range of 800°F - 1500°F without the need for post-annealing operations. However, the severity of corrosive environments may necessitate annealing after welding or the use of 304L.

Type 304L has a carbon content of 0.03% or less. This alloy can be used in the as-welded condition without becoming susceptible to intergranular corrosion.

Specifications - Stainless Steel 304/304L

· ASTM:A312, A376,A358, A269,A249, A403, A182, A351

· ASME: SA312, SA376, Pressure SA358,SA269, SA249,SA403, SA182, SA351

Chemical Composition - Stainless Steel 304/304L

304 Resistance To Corrosion

*Maximum carbon content of 0.04% acceptable for drawn tubes

Typical Mechanical Properties-Stainless Steel 304/304L

Design Features - Stainless Steel 304/304L

· Oxidation resistance up to 1650°F for continuous service and up to 1500°F where cyclic heating is involved.

· General purpose corrosion resistance.

· Non-hardenable except by cold working.

· Non-magnetic except when cold worked.

· May be susceptible to chloride stress corrosion cracking.

· Used where field working is employed.

Typical Applications - Stainless Steel 304/304L

· Sanitary

· Dairy and food processing

· Heat exchangers, evaporators

· Feedwater heaters

Tensile Requirements - Stainless Steel 304/304L

· Tensile Strength (KSI): 70

· Yield Strength (KSI): 25

Each alloy represents an excellent combination of corrosion resistance and fabricability. This combination of properties is the reason for the extensive use of these alloys which represent nearly one half of the total U.S. stainless steel production. The 18-8 stainless steels, principally Alloys 304, 304L, and 304H, are available in a wide range of product forms including sheet, strip, and plate. The alloys are covered by a variety of specifications and codes relating to, or regulating, construction or use of equipment manufactured from these alloys for specific conditions. Food and beverage, sanitary, cryogenic, and pressure-containing applications are examples.

Alloy 304 is the standard alloy since AOD technology has made lower carbon levels more easily attainable and economical. Alloy 304L is used for welded products which might be exposed to conditions which could cause intergranular corrosion in service.

Alloy 304H is a modification of Alloy 304 in which the carbon content is controlled to a range of 0.04-0.10 to provide improved high temperature strength to parts exposed to temperatures above 800°F.