EN 1.4404 standard.pdf
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What Is EN 1.4404 Stainless Steel? A Practical Guide for Buyers and Engineers
EN 1.4404, also known as X2CrNiMo17-12-2 or AISI 316L, is a widely used austenitic stainless steel grade with excellent corrosion resistance and good mechanical properties. It is especially suitable for demanding environments such as marine, chemical processing, food equipment, and pharmaceutical applications.
In this article, we explain what EN 1.4404 means, how it compares to other stainless steels, and why it matters for buyers and engineers selecting materials for critical applications.
What Does EN 1.4404 Stand For?
EN 1.4404 is a European material standard defined under EN 10088-1. It specifies the chemical composition and mechanical properties of a low-carbon molybdenum-alloyed stainless steel.
AISI 316L equivalent
| Standard Designation | Equivalent Name |
|---|---|
| EN 1.4404 | AISI 316L |
| EN Name | X2CrNiMo17-12-2 |
| UNS | S31603 |
Chemical Composition of EN 1.4404
| Element | Content (wt%) |
|---|---|
| Carbon (C) | ≤ 0.030% |
| Chromium (Cr) | 16.5–18.5% |
| Nickel (Ni) | 10.0–13.0% |
| Molybdenum (Mo) | 2.0–2.5% |
| Manganese (Mn) | ≤ 2.0% |
| Silicon (Si) | ≤ 1.0% |
| Phosphorus (P) | ≤ 0.045% |
| Sulfur (S) | ≤ 0.030% |
Why Choose EN 1.4404 Over Standard 304 Stainless Steel?
EN 1.4404 (316L) offers key advantages over EN 1.4301 (304):
| Property | EN 1.4301 (304) | EN 1.4404 (316L) |
|---|---|---|
| Molybdenum | No | Yes (2–2.5%) |
| Pitting Resistance | Moderate | High |
| Chloride Resistance | Limited | Strong |
| Welding Suitability | Good | Excellent (low carbon) |
| Marine/Coastal Use | Not Recommended | Highly Suitable |
If your application involves saltwater, chemicals, or acidic cleaning agents, EN 1.4404 is the safer choice
Applications of EN 1.4404 Stainless Steel
Chemical tanks & processing lines
Food & beverage equipment
Pharmaceutical machinery
Heat exchangers
Offshore & marine structures
Architectural components in coastal areas
X2CrNiMo17-12-2 material Standards & Certification
EN 10088-1/2/3
ASTM A240 / A276 / A312 (equivalent standards)
EN 10204 3.1 or 3.2 MTC (Mill Test Certificate)
NACE MR0175 (when applicable for sour service)
If you are sourcing stainless steel for harsh or hygienic environments, EN 1.4404 / 316L is a reliable and cost-effective option. Understanding its composition, standards, and performance can help you make informed material choices and avoid costly failures.
Need EN 1.4404 plates, tubes, or fittings with certified quality? Contact us for technical support, pricing, and MTCs.
