Among the many stainless steel grades available, Stainless Steel 904L stands out for its exceptional corrosion resistance and mechanical properties. This high-alloy austenitic stainless steel is especially suited for demanding applications across chemical processing, marine environments, and high-salinity conditions.
Stainless Steel 904L is a non-stabilized austenitic stainless steel with low carbon content. Originally developed for resistance to sulfuric acid, it contains higher amounts of nickel (23–28%) and chromium (19–23%), along with additions of molybdenum (4–5%) and copper (1–2%). This unique composition gives it superior resistance to pitting, crevice corrosion, and stress corrosion cracking, especially in aggressive environments.
904L offers exceptional resistance to a wide range of corrosive environments. It performs well in both oxidizing and reducing conditions and shows outstanding resistance to chloride attack, making it ideal for use in seawater and other chloride-rich environments.
This grade offers good mechanical strength, with tensile strength typically around 490 MPa and yield strength at 220 MPa. It retains toughness and ductility even in sub-zero temperatures.
Stainless Steel 904L pipes and tubes are easily weldable using standard methods such as TIG, MIG, and SMAW. However, due to its high alloy content, welding should be followed by appropriate post-weld cleaning to prevent corrosion.
SS 904L remains non-magnetic in all conditions, making it suitable for applications where magnetic permeability needs to be minimal, such as in instrumentation or electronic manufacturing.
Due to its superior properties, SS 904L is used in a range of critical industries, including:
SS 904L Pipes & Tubes are available in various forms:
They come in a range of sizes, thicknesses, and finishes (annealed, pickled, polished) based on application requirements.
While austenitic stainless steels like 304 and 316 are widely used, they may fall short in highly corrosive environments. SS 904L bridges this gap by offering superior resistance without the high cost of more exotic alloys like Hastelloy or Inconel. Though more expensive than standard grades, its extended service life and low maintenance justify the initial investment in many critical applications.
Stainless Steel 904L Pipes & Tubes are a premium choice for industries that require durability, cleanliness, and corrosion resistance under extreme conditions. If you're looking for long-term performance and reliability, investing in SS 904L is a smart decision.
For sourcing high-quality 904L pipes and tubes, ensure you work with certified manufacturers and suppliers who adhere to global standards like ASTM B677, ASME SB677, and EN 10216-5.