In this article, we will explore the differences between 304 and 304L stainless steel, including their chemical composition, mechanical properties, advantages, and typical uses.

1. Chemical Composition

The primary difference between 304 and 304L stainless steel lies in their carbon content:

🔹 Key takeaway:

• 304L has lower carbon content (L = Low Carbon), making it less prone to carbide precipitation during welding.

• 304L often contains slightly higher nickel content for improved corrosion resistance.

2. Mechanical Properties

Both grades are austenitic stainless steels and have similar mechanical properties, but 304 is slightly stronger due to its higher carbon content.

🔹 Summary:

• 304L is softer and more ductile, which makes it ideal for heavy welding applications.

• 304 is stronger and suitable for applications that require higher strength.

3. Corrosion Resistance

Both 304 and 304L offer excellent corrosion resistance in most environments, including chemicals, food processing, and marine environments. However:

• 304L performs better in high-temperature or welding environments because its lower carbon content prevents intergranular corrosion.

• 304 is also corrosion-resistant, but welding may require post-weld heat treatment to reduce carbide precipitation.

4. Weldability

• 304L is the preferred grade for welding because of its reduced risk of weld decay (sensitization).

• 304 can also be welded but might require additional heat treatment.

5. Applications

Both grades are versatile and widely used, but their applications differ slightly based on their carbon content and performance:

6. Cost Considerations

304 and 304L are very similar in price because they belong to the same stainless steel family. However, 304L may be slightly more expensive due to its higher nickel content and specialized use in corrosion-prone or welded environments.

7. Choosing Between 304 and 304L Stainless Steel

If your project involves extensive welding or exposure to corrosive chemicals, choose 304L stainless steel. For structural applications where strength is a priority, 304 stainless steel is a better option.

8. About Our Stainless Steel Coils

We supply high-quality 304 and 304L stainless steel coils manufactured under international standards (ASTM, JIS, DIN, GB, AISI, EN). Our coils are available in various widths, thicknesses, and surface finishes (BA/2B/No.1/No.4/8K/HL).

Product Highlights:

• Material Grades: 201, 202, 301, 304, 304L, 316, 316L, 321, 310S, 904L, and more.

• Size Range: Width 6–12mm, Thickness 1–12mm (customizable).

• Surface Finish: BA/2B/No.1/No.3/No.4/8K/HL/2D/1D.

• Applications: Food equipment, automotive parts, medical instruments, shipbuilding, construction materials, and more.

• Processing Services: Bending, welding, punching, cutting, decoiling, and others.

• Delivery Time: 7–15 days based on order quantity.

• MOQ: 5 tons.

📞 Contact Us:

• Phone/WhatsApp: +86 18802201575

• Email: max@huaqisteelgroup.com

Both 304 and 304L stainless steel are highly versatile, corrosion-resistant, and reliable materials. The main difference lies in their carbon content, which impacts their weldability, corrosion resistance, and strength. Choosing the right grade depends on your specific application requirements.

Whether you need 304 for structural strength or 304L for excellent weldability and corrosion resistance, our team can provide customized stainless steel coil and sheet solutions to meet your needs.