The difference between the 304 and 304L stainless steel strips is only one letter, but the performance, price and use of the two are very different. Today we will focus on what is the difference between the two?
The main components in these two stainless steel materials are 18% chromium (Cr) and 8% nickel (Ni). But a very major difference between the two is that 304L stainless steel is a low carbon steel. Therefore, from a certain point of view, the corrosion resistance of the two is relatively similar, but after the stress is relieved or welded, the corrosion resistance of 304L stainless steel will be enhanced.
In terms of price, the two are also different. The price of 304L stainless steel is generally much higher than that of 304 stainless steel. The applicable environments of the two are also different, because 304L stainless steel is a low-carbon stainless steel. It and U coins are very suitable for use in welding processes. During welding, it can reduce the corrosion caused by welding.
According to the hardness standard, the hardness of 304 stainless steel is better than that of 304L stainless steel. For stainless steel, the level of carbon content in the material will affect its hardness.
Can the two be used in place of each other? Due to the great difference between the two, the two cannot be completely interchanged.
Whether the two can be used instead depends on the situation. Usually, 304L stainless steel has low carbon content, so it has good corrosion resistance. In some occasions, 304L stainless steel can replace 304 stainless steel. However, since the strength of 304 stainless steel is higher than that of 304L stainless steel, if the application requires high strength for steel, 304L stainless steel cannot replace 304 stainless steel because of insufficient strength.