Main Characteristics - Good corrosion resistance: Resists atmospheric exposure, water vapor, nitric acid and most
organic acids. However, in chloride-containing environments, such
as prolonged contact with salt spray or sweat, it is prone to
pitting corrosion.
- Excellent formability: Suitable for cold forming processes such as bending, drawing,
stamping, spinning, flattening and slotting.
- Significant work hardening: Moderate strength in the annealed condition; strength increases
markedly after cold drawing, rolling or bending. Available in soft,
1/4 hard, half hard, full hard and other tempers.
- Good weldability: Can be welded by conventional methods. Prolonged exposure to
450–850°C may cause intergranular corrosion; 304L is recommended
for more demanding applications.
- Magnetic behavior: Essentially non-magnetic in the annealed condition; may become
slightly magnetic after cold working. Magnetism alone should not be
used to identify the material.
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