What is the difference between 1.4306 and 1.4307?
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If you're looking for the best austenitic stainless steel for industrial piping, flanges, or fluid systems, 1.4306 and 1.4307 are two common low-carbon stainless steel grades with slight differences in chemical composition, weldability, and corrosion resistance. This article will detail the differences, advantages, typical applications, and technical parameters to consider when purchasing these two grades, helping engineers and buyers make an informed choice.
What is 1.4306 stainless steel?
1.4306 stainless steel, also known as AISI 304L, is an austenitic chromium-nickel stainless steel and a low-carbon version of 304 stainless steel. Known for its good corrosion resistance and excellent weldability, it is commonly used in the food, chemical, and construction industries. Due to its low carbon content (less than or equal to 0.03%), it offers greater resistance to intergranular corrosion than higher-carbon steels.
What is 1.4307 stainless steel?
1.4307 is an austenitic chromium-nickel stainless steel, also known as 304L, which is an ultra-low carbon version of the standard 304 grade. It is highly resistant to intergranular corrosion, particularly after welding, and offers excellent weldability, ductility, and formability. Due to its properties, it is widely used in applications like food and beverage processing equipment, architectural elements, and general fabrication.
1.4306 vs. 1.4307 stainless steel: chemical composition
1.4306 and 1.4307 have nearly identical chemical compositions, but 1.4307 undergoes desulfurization and fine-tuning treatments, resulting in slightly improved weldability and corrosion resistance. 1.4306 is commonly used for welding pressure piping and chemical equipment, while 1.4307 is more suitable for general structures and mildly corrosive environments.
| Property | 1.4306 (X2CrNi18-9) | 1.4307 (X2CrNi18-9) |
|---|---|---|
| Carbon Content (C) | ≤0.03% | ≤0.03% |
| Chromium (Cr) | 17–19% | 17–19% |
| Nickel (Ni) | 8–10% | 8–10% |
| Manganese (Mn) | ≤2% | ≤2% |
| Phosphorus (P) | ≤0.045% | ≤0.045% |
| Sulfur (S) | ≤0.015% | ≤0.015% |
| Nitrogen (N) | 0.05–0.11% | 0.05–0.11% |
| Primary Feature | Low-carbon austenitic stainless steel for welding | Low-carbon austenitic stainless steel with improved corrosion resistance |
1.4306 vs. 1.4307 stainless steel: Mechanical Properties
| Property | Unit | 1.4306 | 1.4307 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Tensile Strength | MPa | 500–700 | 500–700 |
| Yield Strength | MPa | ≥200 | ≥200 |
| Elongation | % | ≥40 | ≥40 |
| Hardness | HRB | ≤95 | ≤95 |
| Density | g/cm³ | 8.0 | 8.0 |
What is the difference between 1.4301 and 1.4307 stainless steel?
Higher Mechanical Strength: EN 1.4301 has higher tensile strength, yield strength and hardness compared to EN 1.4307. This makes it more suitable for applications requiring higher load capacities, such as structural components, machinery and equipment.
Which stainless steel is better for marine applications, 1.4404 or 1.4306?
1.4404 (AISI 316L) is the preferred choice for marine environments due to its superior corrosion resistance to chloride-induced pitting and crevice corrosion, thanks to its higher molybdenum content.
Market Insight:
Global demand for low-carbon 304 variants is growing due to increased use in food processing, chemical plants, and marine applications. 1.4307 is preferred when post-weld corrosion resistance is critical.
1.4307 stianless steel Price per kg & Supply (2025)
| Grade | Thickness | Finish | Price (USD/kg) | Trend |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1.4306 | 0.5–6 mm | 2B, BA | 3.0–3.8 | Stable |
| 1.4307 | 0.5–6 mm | 2B, BA | 3.2–4.0 | Slight increase (welding demand) |
Gnee Stainless Steel offers 1.4306 and 1.4307 stainless steel sheets, coils, and plates:
Certifications: ISO 9001, SGS, BV
High-quality inventory: Fast delivery for low-carbon 304 grades
Surface finishes: 2B, BA, No.4, mirror-polished
Custom processing: Cutting, slitting, polishing, bending
Packaging: Moisture-proof wrapping, wooden pallets or boxes
Flexible payment & shipping: T/T, L/C; FOB, CIF, DDU
Email: info@gneestainless.com
| Form | Standard Sizes | Surface Finish | Applications |
|---|---|---|---|
| Plates | 1–14 mm thick, 1000–2000 mm wide | 2B, BA, No.4 | Industrial tanks, sheet metal fabrication |
| Pipes / Tubes | OD 6–114 mm, WT 0.5–13 mm | Polished, Pickled | Chemical piping, fluid transport |
| Bars / Rods | 6–100 mm diameter | Polished / Cold Drawn | Shafts, fasteners, fittings |
