Equivalent grades of steel X5CrNiMo17-12-2 (1.4401)

 

X5CrNiMo17-12-2, also known as EN 1.4401, is a molybdenum-alloyed austenitic stainless steel with excellent corrosion resistance, particularly against chloride-containing environments. It is widely recognized as the European equivalent of AISI 316, a highly popular marine-grade stainless steel.

 

X5CrNiMo17-12-2 (1.4401) stainless steel.pdf

 

Equivalent Grades of X5CrNiMo17-12-2

Standard	Equivalent Grade
AISI / ASTM	316
JIS (Japan)	SUS316
GB (China)	06Cr17Ni12Mo2
BS (UK)	316S31
AFNOR (France)	Z6CND17-12
ISO	X5CrNiMo17-12-2

✅ Note: 1.4401 and AISI 316 are functionally equivalent, but slight differences in composition tolerances may exist depending on regional standards.

 

 Chemical Composition (Typical, %)

Element	Content
C	≤ 0.07
Cr	16.5–18.5
Ni	10.0–13.0
Mo	2.0–2.5
Mn	≤ 2.0
Si	≤ 1.0
N	≤ 0.11
P / S	≤ 0.045 / 0.015

 

1.4401 vs 1.4404: What's the Difference?

While 1.4401 and 1.4404 are both molybdenum-bearing stainless steels equivalent to 316 grade, they differ in carbon content:

1.4401: Standard version, max C ≤ 0.07%

1.4404 (316L): Low carbon version, C ≤ 0.03% for better weldability and resistance to intergranular corrosion

If your application involves extensive welding, 1.4404 may be a better choice.

 

Applications of 1.4401 / 316 Stainless Steel

Marine equipment and shipbuilding

Chemical and pharmaceutical processing

Heat exchangers and pressure vessels

Food and beverage processing machinery

Piping systems and architectural components

 

Is X5CrNiMo17-12-2 the same as AISI 316?

Yes, it is the EN equivalent of AISI 316. Both contain similar amounts of Cr, Ni, and Mo, offering comparable corrosion resistance.

Can I use 1.4401 instead of 1.4404?

Yes, in many cases. But if welded joints are a concern or you're working in chloride-rich environments, 1.4404 (316L) may perform better.

Is 1.4401 stainless steel magnetic?

No, like all austenitic steels, it is non-magnetic in the annealed condition.