Chromium serves as the primary alloying element in stainless steel in place of ferrous. Chromium surrounds the metal in a thin layer when oxygen is present, protecting it from the environment. A minimum of 10.5% chromium is present in stainless steels. Stainless steel comes in more than 150 grades and is categorized into 5 categories based on the internal structure of the metal at ambient temperature. 

The five different varieties of stainless steels are austenitic, ferritic, martensitic, duplex, and precipitation-hardened. Approximately 70% of all stainless steel is consumed in austenitic grades. Austenitic stainless steels are non-magnetic and feature a BCC (Body-Centered Cubic) structure. Although work hardening is an option, heat treatment cannot be used to harden this grade of stainless steel.

A variation of stainless steel known as SS 304L Flanges (UNS S30403) has a low carbon content that improves weldability and reduces the risk of condensed corrosion resistance around the weld. Stainless Steel 304L Flanges are the typical "18/8 alloy" that is frequently found in kitchenware like pans and pots. When welding thin sections, post-weld strengthening is not required for SS 304 Flanges. Due to the presence of chromium, stainless steel 304 flanges (UNS S30400) exhibit excellent oxidation and corrosion resistance. These Flanges are also available in specially made sizes and forms.

Excellent forming qualities are present in the grade. Without undergoing any intermediary heat-softening procedures, it can be drawn.

Particularly at cryogenic temperatures, it retains its characteristics well.

Most of the time, no post-weld annealing is necessary to reestablish corrosion resistance.

Wherever little carbide precipitation is required, the low carbon 304L grade can be employed.

The grade is simple to clean and sterilize and gives good resistance to the majority of oxidizing acids.

304 steel is less machinable than carbon steels. If slower speeds, higher feed rates, and cutting fluids are employed, it can be easily machined.

Stress corrosion cracking can happen to stainless steel 304. In situations with chloride and salt, it exhibits less corrosion. Localized pitting corrosion brought on by chloride ions impairs the product's structural stiffness.

Grade: 304/304L

Hardness (HBW): 215max.

(0.2%) Proof strength: 190/175(MPa) min

Tensile strength: 500-700(MPa) min.

Elongation after fracture: 45(long. min.)

Impact energy: 100(J) min.

For more information visit the leading Stainless Steel 304/304L Flanges Supplier