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What Grade of Stainless Steel is 304L?

Introduction to 304L Stainless Steel Grade

304L stainless steel is a low-carbon variant of the 304 grade, classified as an austenitic stainless steel within the 300-series family. It is specified under standards like ASME SA240 and ASTM A240, denoted as sa 240 304l material, sa240 304l material, or UNS S30403. The "L" stands for "low carbon," indicating a maximum carbon content of 0.03%, which enhances weldability by reducing the risk of intergranular corrosion.

This makes 304L ideal for welded structures in corrosive environments. Gangsteel, a leading manufacturer and exporter in China, produces 304L compliant with ASME SA240 stainless steel plates. This guide explains the grade, its properties, and applications, incorporating keywords like ss 304 plate density and sa 240 type 304 304l.

 

What is the Grade Classification of 304L?

304L is an austenitic stainless steel, part of the 300-series, specifically a low-carbon version of Grade 304. Its UNS designation is S30403, distinguishing it from 304 (S30400) and high-carbon 304H (S30409, sa 240 304h material). The austenitic structure, driven by 8-12% nickel, ensures it is ss 304 non magnetic and highly formable. It is specified in ASME SA240 for pressure vessels and general use, making it suitable for sa 240 gr 304 plate and sa 240 gr 304 pipe in welded applications.

 

Chemical Composition of 304L Stainless Steel

The low carbon content is the defining feature of 304L compared to standard 304. The table below shows the composition per ASME SA240:

Element

304L (%)

Purpose

Carbon (C)

≤0.03

Low to prevent carbide precipitation during welding.

Chromium (Cr)

18.0–20.0

Provides corrosion resistance.

Nickel (Ni)

8.0–12.0

Stabilizes austenitic structure for ductility.

Manganese (Mn)

≤2.0

Aids deoxidation and workability.

Silicon (Si)

≤0.75

Enhances oxidation resistance.

Phosphorus (P)

≤0.045

Controlled to avoid brittleness.

Sulfur (S)

≤0.03

Minimized for pitting resistance.

Nitrogen (N)

≤0.10

Boosts strength.

Gangsteel’s 304L, like materiale sa 240 304 and sa-240-304 material, is refined to low sulfur for enhanced performance.

 

Mechanical Properties of 304L Stainless Steel

304L has slightly lower strength than 304 due to reduced carbon, prioritizing weldability. Per ASME SA240:

Property

Value

Description

Tensile Strength (min)

485 MPa (70 ksi)

Maximum stress before fracture.

Yield Strength (min)

170 MPa (25 ksi)

Stress at plastic deformation, lower than 304’s 205 MPa.

Elongation (min)

40%

Ductility for forming plat ss 304 3 mm.

Hardness (max)

201 HBW / 92 HRB

Resistance to indentation.

Density

7.93 g/cm³

ss 304 plate densityand sa 240 304l density for design.

Gangsteel’s SA240 Gr 304L meets these specs for sa 240 tp 304/304l.

 

Applications of 304L Stainless Steel

304L’s weldability makes it ideal for:

  • Chemical Processing: Welded tanks and reactors using sa 240 gr 304/304l.
  • Food Production: Hygienic surfaces in sa 240 gr 304 pipe or plat stainless 304.
  • Marine: Mild corrosion fittings, unlike 316 for saltwater.
  • Pharmaceuticals: Welded vessels for sa 240 304 plate.

Gangsteel’s ASME SA 213/SA 213M stainless pipes complement these uses.

 

Price and Market Trends for 304L

Ss sheet 304 price, ss 304 steel price, ss 304 sheet price, and 304 ss plate price range $1,820-$3,584/MT in October 2025, slightly higher for 304L due to low-carbon processing. Gangsteel offers competitive rates for sa240-304 material and sa240-304 a240-304.

 

Comparing 304L with Other Grades

  • SS204 vs SS 304: 304L has better corrosion resistance due to higher nickel; 204 is cheaper.
  • Sa-240 type 304 vs 316: 304L for general use, 316 for chlorides.
  • Sa240 grade 304 vs 304L: 304 is stronger, 304L better for welds.

Gangsteel’s nickel alloy steel plates offer advanced options.

 

Why Choose Gangsteel for 304L Stainless Steel?

Gangsteel provides sa 240 304 plate with:

 

Conclusion

304L is a low-carbon austenitic stainless steel grade (UNS S30403) optimized for welding, ideal for sa 240 304 material in corrosive settings. For what is sa 240 304 or what is 240 steel, it’s a reliable choice. Gangsteel’s solutions ensure quality. Contact for UNS stainless steel plates.

FAQ

What is SA 240 304?

What is sa 240 304is ASME SA240 Grade 304 stainless steel.

What is SA240 material?

What is SA240is the ASME standard for stainless steel like sa240 material.

What is the density of 304L?

Sa 240 304l densityis 7.93 g/cm³.

How does 304L compare to 304?

Sa 240 304l materialhas lower carbon for better weldability than 304.

What is the price of 304L?

Ss 304 sheet priceand 304 ss plate price range $1,820-$3,584/MT.

Is 304L non-magnetic?

Yes, ss 304 non magnetic unless cold-worked.

 

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