Stainless Steel Scrap 304L is a low-carbon variation of 304 stainless steel, which is an austenitic stainless steel composed of chromium (Cr), nickel (Ni), and a small amount of carbon (C). The key difference is that 304L has a lower carbon content, making it ideal for applications requiring excellent weldability and resistance to sensitization (corrosion) during welding processes.


Chemical Composition (Typical Range):

✅ Chromium (Cr): 18.0% – 20.0%

✅ Nickel (Ni): 8.0% – 10.5%

✅ Manganese (Mn): 2.0% – 2.5%

✅ Silicon (Si): ≤ 1.0%

✅ Carbon (C): ≤ 0.03% (lower than standard 304)

✅ Sulfur (S): ≤ 0.03%

✅ Phosphorus (P): ≤ 0.045%

✅ Iron (Fe): Balance

Key Features:

✅ Lower Carbon Content: The reduced carbon level prevents the formation of chromium carbides, making it more resistant to intergranular corrosion after welding.

✅ Superior Corrosion Resistance: Performs well in oxidizing environments, especially in food, chemical, and marine applications.

✅ Excellent Weldability & Formability: Suitable for welding and forming without concerns over post-weld sensitization.

✅ Non-Magnetic: Typically non-magnetic, though can become slightly magnetic after cold working.

✅ Durability & Strength: Maintains high mechanical properties even at higher temperatures.

Applications:

✅ Welding & Fabrication: Ideal for welding-sensitive applications in industries like aerospace, automotive, and petrochemical.

✅ Food & Beverage Processing: Common in processing tanks, pipes, and equipment that require sanitary conditions.

✅ Marine Industry: Used in boats, ships, and offshore structures exposed to saline conditions.

✅ Medical & Pharmaceutical Industries: Found in surgical instruments, medical implants, and cleanroom environments.

✅ Architectural Applications: Utilized in architectural panels, roofing, and facades due to its durability and aesthetic appeal.

Scrap Forms Available:

📌 Sheet Scrap, Turnings, Shavings, Plates, Pipes, and Miscellaneous Stainless Steel Scrap