# 304L stainless steel equivalents

304L stainless steel is nearest to EN 1.4307 (X2CrNi18-9), JIS SUS304L and China GB 022Cr19Ni10. These are nearest equivalents, not identical grades: the governing standard or mill certificate decides.

| System | Designation |
|---|---|
| AISI / ASTM / SAE | 304L |
| EN steel name | X2CrNi18-9 |
| EN steel number | 1.4307 |
| JIS | SUS304L |
| China GB | 022Cr19Ni10 |

Family: Austenitic stainless, low carbon

## What it is

The low-carbon version of 304. The lower carbon reduces chromium carbide formation at grain boundaries during welding, so welded parts keep their corrosion resistance without a post-weld anneal.

## Typical uses

Welded tanks and vessels, process pipework, heavy welded sections and parts that cannot be annealed after welding.

## Machining notes

Machines like 304: it work-hardens, so use sharp tools, positive rake and a constant feed. Many mills supply material certified to both 304 and 304L.

## Related grades

- 304 stainless steel (1.4301): Standard-carbon version
- 316L stainless steel (1.4404): Low-carbon grade with molybdenum

Equivalents are nearest matches, not identical grades. The governing standard or mill certificate decides.

## FAQ

**What is the European equivalent of 304L stainless steel?**
The nearest EN grade is 1.4307, steel name X2CrNi18-9.

**What is the JIS equivalent of 304L stainless steel?**
The nearest Japanese grade is SUS304L.

**What is the Chinese GB equivalent of 304L stainless steel?**
The nearest Chinese GB grade is 022Cr19Ni10.

**Is 1.4307 the same as 304L?**
1.4307 (X2CrNi18-9) is the nearest European equivalent of 304L, not an identical grade. Composition limits and required properties differ in detail, so check the governing standard or the mill certificate when it matters.

**What is 304L used for?**
Welded tanks and vessels, process pipework, heavy welded sections and parts that cannot be annealed after welding.

Source page: https://machinistcharts.com/material/304l-stainless/
Updated: 2026-10-06
Publisher: MachinistCharts (https://machinistcharts.com)