What is the equivalent material for inox 304?
Leave a message
If you're sourcing Inox 304 stainless steel for international projects or comparing materials across standards, it's essential to understand its global equivalent materials. Inox 304, also known as AISI 304, is one of the most commonly used austenitic stainless steels, known for its excellent corrosion resistance, weldability, and versatility.
In this article, we'll help you quickly identify international equivalents of Inox 304 and explain why it remains a top choice across various industries.
What is Inox 304?
Inox 304 (from "inoxydable," meaning stainless in French) is the European name for AISI 304 stainless steel, which contains approximately 18% chromium and 8% nickel. It's widely used in architecture, food processing, kitchen equipment, piping, and chemical containers due to its excellent corrosion resistance and good formability.
Equivalent Grades of Inox 304 in Different Standards
| Standard System | Grade Name | Remarks |
|---|---|---|
| UNS (USA) | UNS S30400 | Unified Numbering System |
| AISI / ASTM | 304 | American standard (AISI 304 / ASTM A240) |
| EN (Europe) | 1.4301 | Official EN numeric designation |
| DIN (Germany) | X5CrNi18-10 | Based on chemical composition |
| JIS (Japan) | SUS 304 | Japanese Industrial Standard |
| GB (China) | 06Cr19Ni10 | Chinese national standard |
| BS (UK) | 304S15 / 304S31 | British Standards |
| ISO | X5CrNi18-10 | Similar to EN/DIN |
Is AISI 304 the same as EN 1.4301?
Yes, they are equivalent in terms of chemical composition and mechanical properties.
Can I use SUS 304 in place of AISI 304?
Yes, SUS 304 (Japan) is a direct equivalent of AISI 304 and can be substituted in most applications.
Chemical Composition Comparison (Typical Values)
| Element | AISI 304 / Inox 304 |
|---|---|
| Chromium (Cr) | 18.0 – 20.0% |
| Nickel (Ni) | 8.0 – 10.5% |
| Carbon (C) | ≤ 0.08% |
| Manganese (Mn) | ≤ 2.0% |
| Silicon (Si) | ≤ 1.0% |
| Phosphorus (P) | ≤ 0.045% |
| Sulfur (S) | ≤ 0.03% |
| Nitrogen (N) | ≤ 0.10% |
What is the hardness of Inox 304?
Physical properties
| Property | Value |
|---|---|
| Density: kg/dm3 | 7,9 |
| Hardness: HB | 160-190 |
| Rockwell Hardness Number max.. | B90 (TP 304-ASTM A 249) |
| Magnetizability | No (may change by cold forming) |
Does inox 304 rust?
While 304 stainless steel offers some protection against rusting, this does not mean it is entirely immune to oxidation. It can corrode over time when exposed to certain conditions-such as high humidity or salt water.
What is the difference between 201 and 304 inox?
Composition: 201 sheet has a high metal content, a bright exterior with a dark brightness, and is easy to rust. 304 contains more chromium, has a matte finish, and it does not rust. The content is another significant distinction between 201 and 304.
What is the difference between inox 304 and SS304?
Inox 304 and SS304 refer to the same material-"Inox" is the French abbreviation for stainless steel, while "SS" stands for "Stainless Steel" in English. Both denote 18-8 chromium-nickel austenitic stainless steel, with identical chemical composition, properties, and compliance with standards like ASTM A240.
GNEE – Your Trusted Supplier of Inox 304 and Global Equivalents
At GNEE Steel, we supply a wide range of Inox 304 stainless steel products including coils, sheets, plates, bars, and pipes - all with traceable certifications and available in international equivalents like 1.4301, SUS 304, and UNS S30400.
✅ We Offer:
Full stock of Inox 304 / 1.4301 / SUS 304 materials
Customized cutting, slitting, polishing, and fabrication
Mill test certificates (EN 10204 3.1/3.2)
Export packaging and global shipping (Europe, Asia, South America)
Competitive pricing and prompt delivery
📩 Contact us today to get a quote or request material datasheets. Whether you need EN 1.4301 stainless steel coil or JIS SUS 304 sheets, GNEE has the expertise and inventory to meet your needs.
