Characteristics of JIS G4304/4312 SUS 304L Steel
1. Low-Carbon Austenitic Structure with Excellent Intergranular Corrosion Resistance
Extremely low carbon content (≤0.03%): Significantly reduces carbide precipitation in the heat-affected zone during welding, eliminating the risk of intergranular corrosion. Particularly suitable for applications where post-weld solution treatment is impractical (e.g., chemical equipment, pipelines).
Strong resistance to sensitization: Maintains superior corrosion resistance during prolonged exposure at temperatures between 450–850°C, outperforming standard 304 steel.
2. Balanced Corrosion Resistance and Heat Resistance
Corrosion Resistance:
Resistant to corrosion from various media, including atmospheric conditions, water, acids, and alkalis, making it ideal for harsh environments such as marine and chemical industries.
Exhibits superior pitting resistance in chloride-containing environments (e.g., seawater, salt spray) compared to 304 steel, approaching the performance of 316L steel.
Heat Resistance:
Operates across a wide temperature range (-196°C to 800°C), with high mechanical strength at low temperatures and stable oxidation resistance at high temperatures.
Suitable for high-temperature components such as cryogenic equipment and automotive exhaust pipes (below 800°C).
3. Outstanding Processability and Weldability
Cold Working Performance:
Exceptional plasticity and toughness allow for the fabrication of complex-shaped parts via cold rolling, cold drawing, and other processes without cracking.
Requires annealing after cold working to relieve stress and restore plasticity.
Hot Working Performance:
Well-suited for forging, hot rolling, and other hot working processes, with uniform microstructure and stable properties after heat treatment.
Weldability:
Compatible with various welding methods, including TIG (argon arc) and arc welding, producing strong, corrosion-resistant welds.
Maintains intergranular corrosion resistance without post-weld heat treatment, simplifying manufacturing processes.
