304H vs 321H Stainless Steel Titanium vs. Carbon Content

304H vs 321H Stainless Steel: Titanium vs. Carbon Content

At Gangsteel, a premier supplier of stainless steel, we offer high-quality SA 240 GR 304H and SA 240 GR 321H plates compliant with ASME SA 240 and ASTM A240 standards.

304H stainless steel(UNS S30409, AISI 304H, EN 1.4948) is a high-carbon austenitic grade designed for high-temperature strength up to 1500°F (815°C).

321H stainless steel(UNS S32109, AISI 321H, EN 1.4878) is a high-carbon, titanium-stabilized grade for enhanced weldability and high-temperature performance.

Both are non-magnetic with a density of 8.00 g/cm³. This guide compares 304H vs 321H stainless steel, focusing on titanium and carbon content impacts on properties and applications like plat stainless 304 and SA 240 GR 304 pipe. Contact us at admin@gangsteel.com or explore our ASME SA240 Stainless sheet.

Overview of 304H vs 321H Stainless Steel

304Hrelies on high carbon for creep resistance in high-heat environments like boilers.

321Huses titanium to stabilize against sensitization, improving weldability and high-temperature stability.

Both are suited for high temperatures, but 321H excels in welded applications.

Chemical Composition Comparison

Titanium in 321H and carbon content in both grades are key differentiators.

Titaniumin 321H binds carbon, preventing chromium carbide formation. Carbon enhances strength in both. See sa240 gr 304h and sa240 gr 321h.

Titanium vs Carbon Content Impact

304H: High carbon (0.04-0.10%) boosts creep resistance but risks sensitization in welds.

321H: Titanium (5x(C+N) - 0.70%) stabilizes by forming titanium carbides, preserving corrosion resistance in welds.

Impact: 321H is better for welded high-temperature applications; 304H suits non-welded heat environments.

Corrosion Resistance Comparison

304H: Resists mild acids and atmospheric conditions, outperforming SS204 vs SS 304.

321H: Similar resistance but superior in welded applications due to titanium stabilization.

Titanium Benefit: 321H maintains corrosion resistance in welds. See sa240 gr 316l for chloride resistance.

Strength Comparison

Both offer similar strength (25.5 ksi at 1000°F), but 321H’s titanium enhances weld performance. See sa240 gr 304.

Temperature Performance

304H: Continuous up to 1500°F (815°C); intermittent up to 1600°F (871°C).

321H: Similar range, but better for welded high-temperature applications due to stabilization.

Titanium Benefit: 321H resists intergranular corrosion in welds at high temperatures.

Weldability Comparison

304H: Fair with ER308H fillers; needs annealing to avoid sensitization.

321H: Excellent with ER347 fillers; titanium prevents sensitization.

For welds, see sa240 gr 321.

Applications

304H: Boilers, heat exchangers, power generation (non-welded).

321H: Welded high-temperature components, aerospace, chemical processing.

For cost-effective options, see sa240 gr 201.

Cost Comparison

As of October 19, 2025:

• 304H: $1.60-$3.50/kg.
• 321H: $2.00-$3.80/kg.

Gangsteel offers $1.60/kg for 304H, $2.00/kg for 321H FOB (MOQ 1 ton). Visit astm a 240 stainless plate.

Summary

304His cost-effective for high-temperature, non-welded applications, leveraging high carbon for strength. 321H’s titanium stabilization enhances weldability and corrosion resistance for welded high-temperature components. Choose 304H for heat, 321H for welds.