304 and 304L stainless steel are alloys from the 300 series of stainless steel that are great for manufacturing purposes. They are made up of chromium, nickel, and carbon, giving them unique characteristics that make them great for a wide range of end uses. Both products offer excellent forming and welding properties, resistance to corrosion, toughness in lower temperatures, ease of fabrication, and are known for their attractive appearances.
At National Kwikmetal Service, we offer comprehensive and reliable 304 and 304L stainless steel slitting services for our customers in the Tulsa, Oklahoma area. Our in-house processing capabilities allow us to prepare the materials based on our customer’s unique needs. We’re going to discuss everything you’ll need to know about our type 304 and 304L stainless steel products below.
Difference Between 304 and 304L
The main difference between type 304 and 304L stainless steel has to do with their carbon content. Whereas 304 stainless steel contains a mild level of carbon, the 304L grade is made up of 0.03% carbon content, which increases its weldability.
Type 304 is a variation of the classic 18-8 stainless product, possessing resistance atmospheric, chemical, food industry, petroleum, and textile exposures.
On the other hand, Type 304L is a variation of 304 grade that is extra low in carbon content. This feature helps eliminate carbide precipitation that can happen when welding these types of materials.
Applications
The 304 stainless steel grade is used for different applications. However, Type 304L is most useful for welding purposes. Ideal uses of 304 stainless steel grade include the production of architectural trims, chemical equipment, fasteners, filtration screens, hinges, kitchen appliances and machinery, marine equipment, pharmaceutical equipment, shipping drums, tools, and tanks.
You can rely on a trusted stainless-steel facility in the Tulsa, Oklahoma area to provide clean, high-quality, and custom cut sheets and strips so you can manufacture premium products and keep your business operations running smoothly. A reputable and capable stainless steel slitting expert can act as an extension of your business.
Properties
Both 304 and 304L grades are austenitic alloys. A nonmagnetic solid solution of carbon or ferric carbide is utilized with iron to provide the grades their corrosion-resistant properties. They can be formed into various shapes. Plus, the grades become slightly magnetic upon cold working but usually remain magnetic. You can check out more details about 304 and 304L stainless steel grades here.
Fabrication
The two can be processed and welded with most standard practices in Tulsa, Oklahoma. However, they may be subject to chip breaking upon machining. Product manufactures can achieve the best results with heavy feed, slow speed, sharp tooling, excellent lubrication, and powerful equipment. Talking of hot and cold forming, remember: Cold forming operations increase their strength as they are pretty malleable and form quickly. Hot forming must be done at temperatures around 1652–2102°F. Finally, anneal at 1900°F after hot working processes for attaining the highest corrosion resistance abilities.
Trust NKS with All Your 304 and 304L Stainless Steel Slitting Needs in Tulsa, Oklahoma
304 and 304L are two widely used types of stainless steel. From commercial kitchens to nuclear power stations, and more, you can find this material in use.
The NKS team provides premium 304 and 304L stainless steel slitting services in Tulsa, Oklahoma. As a leading metal service center focused on delivering different metals and the finest slitting services, we have the skill and state-of-the-art machinery to provide a final product that meets or exceeds your expectations.
Ready to get started? Contact National Kwikmetal Service at 1800-722-5029 (toll-free) today, or request a quote through our website.