What is the Difference Between 304 and 304L Stainless Steel

when it comes to variations between 304 and 304l stainless steel, an essential thing to note is the latter’s greater immunity to intergranular corrosion. intergranular corrosion is the cracking that can occur along grain boundaries of steel in the presence of tensile stress.

304 stainless steel has good welding characteristics and does not typically require post-weld annealing.

304l stainless steel also doesn’t require post-weld annealing and is widely used in heavy-gauge components where its immunity to carbide precipitation is needed.

common applications of 304 and 304l stainless steel

• architectural moldings & trim

• kitchen equipment (sinks, saucepans)

• plumbing materials

• back splashes

• chemical processing equipment

• textile industry equipment

• paper industry processing equipment

• pharmaceutical equipment