304, TP304, and 304L Stainless Steel Materials

Brief Distinction Between 304, TP304, and 304L Stainless Steel Materials

Introduction

304 stainless steel is extensively used for manufacturing corrosion-resistant and formable equipment and parts, thanks to its excellent heat resistance. It is common in food, chemical, atomic energy industries, and decorative applications. Understanding the differences between 304, TP304, and 304L is crucial for selecting the right material for specific applications.

Chemical Composition

304 Stainless Steel

年级: 0Cr18Ni9
C: ≤ 0.08
Si: ≤ 1.00
Mn: ≤ 2.00
P: ≤ 0.035
S: ≤ 0.030
Ni: 8.00-11.00
Cr: 17.00-19.00

TP304 Stainless Steel

C: ≤ 0.08
Si: ≤ 1.00
Mn: ≤ 2.00
P: ≤ 0.045
S: ≤ 0.030
Ni: 8.00-11.00
Cr: 18.00-20.00

304L Stainless Steel

年级: 00Cr18Ni10
C: ≤ 0.03
Si: ≤ 1.00
Mn: ≤ 2.00
P: ≤ 0.035
S: ≤ 0.030
Ni: 8.00-11.00
Cr: 18.00-20.00

Key Differences

304 vs. TP304

标准: 304 is a national standard (0Cr18Ni9), while TP304 follows the American standard (Tube/Pipe).
Composition: TP304 has slightly higher chromium content (≥18%), enhancing its corrosion resistance and increasing its price slightly compared to 304.

304 vs. 304L

Carbon Content: 304 contains ≤0.08% carbon, while 304L contains ≤0.03% carbon.
Usage: 304 is a general-purpose stainless steel suitable for equipment and parts requiring good corrosion resistance and formability. 304L, with lower carbon content, is used in applications requiring welding, minimizing carbide precipitation in the heat-affected zone to prevent intergranular corrosion.

Comparison Table of 304 Grades

年级	标准	C	Si	Mn	P	S	Ni	Cr
304	National	≤0.08	≤1.00	≤2.00	≤0.035	≤0.030	8.00-11.00	17.00-19.00
TP304	American	≤0.08	≤1.00	≤2.00	≤0.045	≤0.030	8.00-11.00	18.00-20.00
304L	National	≤0.03	≤1.00	≤2.00	≤0.035	≤0.030	8.00-11.00	18.00-20.00

Conclusion

Understanding the distinctions between 304, TP304, and 304L stainless steel helps in selecting the appropriate material for specific industrial applications. Each type offers unique advantages in terms of composition, corrosion resistance, and suitability for welding.