SS304L vs. SUS304L Stainless Steel: Key Differences
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When specifying 304L stainless steel for welded structures, pressure equipment, or corrosion-resistant applications, buyers often see two similar designations: SS304L and SUS304L. Although they are frequently used interchangeably in the global market, they are governed by different standards systems, which can affect documentation, certification, and procurement.
SS304L vs. SUS304L Stainless Steel: Key Differences
What is SUS304L material?
SUS304L is a low-carbon austenitic stainless steel, a variant of the common SUS304, known for its excellent corrosion resistance, high ductility, and superior weldability, as the low carbon content prevents carbide precipitation (sensitization) after welding, eliminating the need for post-weld heat treatment in many applications. It's widely used in food processing, chemical equipment, medical devices, and pressure vessels for its strength and resistance in corrosive environments.
What is equivalent to ss304l?
SS304L (Stainless Steel 304 Low Carbon) is equivalent to several other standards, most commonly UNS S30403, EN 1.4307, and JIS SUS 304L, all representing the same low-carbon austenitic stainless steel known for excellent weldability, similar to standard 304 but with educed carbide preciptation risk in welded areas.
SS304L vs. SUS304L Stainless Steel: Standards
| Designation | Standard System | Main Standards |
|---|---|---|
| SS304L | ASTM / AISI | ASTM A240, A276, A312 |
| SUS304L | JIS (Japan) | JIS G4304, JIS G4305 |
SS304L vs. SUS304L Stainless Steel: Chemical Composition (wt%)
| Element | SS304L (ASTM A240) | SUS304L (JIS G4304) |
|---|---|---|
| Carbon (C) | ≤ 0.03 | ≤ 0.03 |
| Chromium (Cr) | 18.0 – 20.0 | 18.0 – 20.0 |
| Nickel (Ni) | 8.0 – 12.0 | 8.0 – 12.0 |
| Manganese (Mn) | ≤ 2.0 | ≤ 2.0 |
| Silicon (Si) | ≤ 0.75 | ≤ 1.00 |
| Phosphorus (P) | ≤ 0.045 | ≤ 0.045 |
| Sulfur (S) | ≤ 0.03 | ≤ 0.03 |
SS304L and SUS304L Mechanical Properties (Annealed Condition)
| Property | SS304L | SUS304L |
|---|---|---|
| Tensile Strength | ≥ 485 MPa | ≥ 480 MPa |
| Yield Strength (0.2%) | ≥ 170 MPa | ≥ 170 MPa |
| Elongation | ≥ 40% | ≥ 40% |
| Hardness | ≤ 92 HRB | ≤ 92 HRB |
SUS304L stainless steel corrosion resistance
SUS304L stainless steel has excellent corrosion resistance in mild chemical, atmospheric, and freshwater environments, thanks to its 18–20% chromium and 8–12% nickel content, though it is less resistant to chloride-induced pitting than 316L.
SUS304L stainless steel weldability
With a low carbon content of ≤ 0.03%, SUS304L stainless steel exhibits superior weldability, minimizing the risk of intergranular corrosion in welded joints without the need for post-weld heat treatment.
Is SUS304L stainless steel magnetic?
SUS304L stainless steel is non-magnetic in the annealed condition, but slight magnetism may develop after cold working or forming due to partial austenite transformation.
SUS304L stainless steel applications
SUS304L stainless steel is widely used in food processing equipment, chemical tanks, architectural panels, piping systems, and medical instruments where corrosion resistance, formability, and weldability are critical.
What are the differences between SUS304L and SUS316L stainless steel?
The main difference is molybdenum content: SUS316L contains 2–3% molybdenum, providing superior pitting and crevice corrosion resistance in chloride-rich environments, while SUS304L lacks molybdenum and is better suited for general-purpose applications.
If you have project requirements for 304L SUS304L stainless steel, we welcome your order. GNEE has a large inventory of popular products for you to choose from. It can be processed into various practical product forms, including plates, coils, pipes, bars, wires, etc. For detailed chemical composition and free samples, please contact our factory immediately. We offer competitive prices and excellent service.
