304L stainless steel is an ultra-low-carbon austenitic stainless steel designed to minimize carbide precipitation and enhance resistance to intergranular corrosion, especially after welding or stress relief. It is widely used in corrosive environments where post-weld heat treatment is impractical.

1. Key Parameters and Properties

Chemical Composition

The low carbon content (≤0.03%) is critical for reducing susceptibility to intergranular corrosion139.

Mechanical & Physical Properties19:

• Tensile Strength: ≥480 MPa

• Yield Strength: ≥177 MPa

• Elongation: ≥40%

• Density: 7.9 g/cm³

• Melting Point: ~1,400°C

• Thermal Conductivity: 16.3–21.5 W/(m·K) (100–500°C)

2. International Standards

304L tubes comply with diverse global standards for seamless/welded tubes:

3. Equivalent Grades

304L is designated differently across standards19:

4. Packaging Methods

Packaging ensures corrosion protection and transport safety258:

• Standard: Plastic caps on tube ends, bundled with steel straps (max 2 tons/bundle).

• Options:

  • Wooden crates (small batches).

  • Antirust oil coating + woven bags.

  • Sealed plastic bags for sanitary applications (e.g., food/pharmaceutical).

• Special: Mirror-polished surfaces wrapped in non-woven fabric to prevent scratches.

5. Applications

304L tubes excel in corrosive and high-purity environments135:

6. Special Processing Options

• Surface Finishes:

  • Acid pickling, mechanical polishing (180–600# grit), electrolytic polishing56.

• Dimensional Tolerances:

  • Outer diameter: ±0.1 mm; surface roughness: ≤0.6 μm5.

• Customization:

  • Non-standard sizes (e.g., capillary tubes: Ø0.5–6 mm), laser-cut shapes710.

Summary Table: Key Features of 304L Stainless Steel Tubes

304L stainless steel tubes balance cost, weldability, and corrosion resistance, making them indispensable for critical industrial infrastructure. When selecting, prioritize standards-compliant suppliers and specify surface finishes/packaging based on application hygiene requirements.