Is 304L more expensive than 304?

Overview of SA 240 GR 304 and SA 240 GR 304L

SA 240 GR 304 and SA 240 GR 304L are austenitic stainless steels specified under ASME SA 240, both with a SA 240 GR 304 density of 8.00 g/cm³ and SS 304 non magnetic properties in the annealed state. The key difference is the carbon content:

• SA 240 GR 304: ≤0.08% carbon, offering higher strength (tensile ≥515 MPa, yield ≥205 MPa).
• SA 240 GR 304L: ≤0.03% carbon, enhancing weldability by reducing sensitization risks.

These grades are used in applications like plat stainless 304, SA 240 GR 304 pipe, and food processing equipment. Gangsteel’s sa 240 gr 304 and sa 240 gr 304l plates are certified for quality.

Price Comparison: SA 240 GR 304 vs. SA 240 GR 304L

As of October 14, 2025, SA 240 GR 304L is generally slightly less expensive or comparable in price to SA 240 GR 304, with differences typically within 0-5%. Below is an overview of indicative market prices for standard 2B finish plates (3-6mm thick), based on global supplier data:

*Sources: Procurement Resource (Q2 2025), IMARC Group (June 2025), and Nexizo (July 2025). Prices exclude shipping and duties.

At Gangsteel, our SA 240 GR 304L plates start at $1.50/kg FOB (MOQ 1 ton), compared to $1.60/kg for SA 240 GR 304, reflecting market trends.

Factors Influencing Price Differences

1. Carbon Content and Processing:
   • SA 240 GR 304L requires stricter control to achieve low carbon (≤0.03%), which can slightly increase production costs. However, its widespread use in welding applications increases demand, often offsetting costs through economies of scale.
   • SA 240 GR 304’s higher carbon (≤0.08%) is standard, with no additional refining, keeping costs stable.
2. Market Demand:
   • SA 240 GR 304L is preferred for welded applications (e.g., food processing, chemical tanks), driving higher production volumes and sometimes lower prices.
   • SA 240 GR 304 is used in non-welded structural applications, with steady but slightly lower demand in some markets.
3. Dual Certification:
   • Many suppliers, including Gangsteel, offer SA 240 TP 304/304L dual-certified plates, which meet both specifications. These are priced similarly to SA 240 GR 304, reducing cost differences.
4. Alloy Costs:
   • Both grades have similar chromium (18-20%) and nickel (8-10.5%) content, so raw material costs are nearly identical, unlike SA 240 GR 316L, which is 10-20% pricier due to molybdenum. See sa 240 gr 316l.
5. Regional Variations:
   • In Asia, 304L is often 3-5% cheaper due to high production for welded applications. In Europe and the USA, prices are closer due to dual certification and standardized inventory.

Applications and Cost Considerations

• SA 240 GR 304: Ideal for structural components, architectural panels, and non-welded applications (e.g., plat SS 304 3mm) where higher strength (tensile ≥515 MPa) is needed. Its SS 304 plate price is competitive for general uses.
• SA 240 GR 304L: Preferred for welded applications like SA 240 GR 304 pipe, food processing equipment, and chemical tanks due to reduced sensitization risks. Its SS 304 sheet price is often lower for welding-focused projects.

Compared to SS204 vs SS 304, both 304 and 304L offer superior corrosion resistance, justifying their cost. For high-temperature applications, explore sa 240 gr 304h.

Why SA 240 GR 304L May Be Preferred Despite Cost

While SA 240 GR 304L is not significantly more expensive, its lower cost in some markets and enhanced weldability make it a better value for:

• Welded Structures: Eliminates the need for post-weld annealing, reducing labor costs.
• Corrosive Environments: Maintains corrosion resistance in welded zones, unlike SA 240 GR 304.
• Food and Pharma: Meets stringent hygiene standards, similar to plat stainless 304.

For harsher environments, consider our sa 240 gr 317l or sa 240 gr 321.

Why Choose Gangsteel?

Gangsteel offers certified SA 240 GR 304 and SA 240 GR 304L plates at competitive prices, with SA 240 GR 304L starting at $1.50/kg FOB for bulk orders. Our inventory includes custom sizes like plate 2 mm SUS 304 and dual-certified SA 240 TP 304/304L plates. For quotes or to learn what is SA 304, visit our astm a 240 stainless plate page or email admin@gangsteel.com.