S30408 vs S30403 Stainless Steel Sheet
Stainless steel is one of the most widely used materials in industries ranging from construction to chemical processing. Among the numerous stainless steel grades, S30408 and S30403 stainless steel sheets are two of the most common. Both belong to the austenitic stainless steel family and are equivalent to the widely known 304 and 304L stainless steel grades, respectively. In this article, we’ll discuss the differences, applications, and advantages of S30408 and S30403 stainless steel sheets to help you choose the right material for your project.
What is S30408 Stainless Steel Sheet?
S30408 stainless steel sheet corresponds to the standard 304 stainless steel. It contains 18–20% chromium and 8–10.5% nickel, giving it excellent corrosion resistance, good mechanical properties, and durability.
Key Properties of S30408:
High corrosion resistance in atmospheric and mild chemical environments.
Good weldability and formability.
Tensile strength of about 520 MPa.
Widely used in kitchen equipment, architectural panels, and chemical containers.
What is S30403 Stainless Steel Sheet?
S30403 stainless steel sheet corresponds to the low-carbon version of 304, known as 304L stainless steel. The main difference lies in its lower carbon content (≤0.03%), which provides enhanced resistance to intergranular corrosion after welding.
Key Properties of S30403:
Superior resistance to intergranular corrosion.
Ideal for applications involving welding without the need for post-weld annealing.
Slightly lower tensile strength compared to S30408 but better corrosion resistance in welded structures.
Commonly used in pressure vessels, welded tanks, and pipelines.
S30408 vs S30403 Stainless Steel Sheet – Key Differences
| Feature | S30408 (304) | S30403 (304L) |
|---|---|---|
| Carbon Content | ≤0.08% | ≤0.03% |
| Corrosion Resistance | Excellent | Better in welded conditions |
| Mechanical Strength | Higher | Slightly lower |
| Weldability | Good | Excellent |
| Common Uses | General fabrication, kitchenware, chemical processing | Welded structures, pressure vessels, pipelines |
Applications of S30408 and S30403 Stainless Steel Sheets
Both grades are versatile and widely used across multiple industries:
Food and Beverage Industry: Storage tanks, kitchen equipment, brewing equipment.
Construction & Architecture: Facades, roofing, decorative panels, railings.
Chemical & Petrochemical Industry: Process equipment, heat exchangers, tanks.
Medical Equipment: Sterile surfaces, surgical tools, hospital furnishings.
Marine Industry: Boat fittings, structural parts exposed to moisture.
Why Choose S30408 or S30403 Stainless Steel Sheet?
Durability: Long service life with low maintenance.
Corrosion Resistance: Both grades perform well in various environments.
Cost-Effective: Affordable compared to higher-alloy stainless steels.
Versatility: Suitable for cutting, welding, machining, and forming.
When selecting between S30408 and S30403 stainless steel sheets, the choice depends on the application. If you require higher mechanical strength, S30408 (304) is ideal. If your project involves extensive welding and resistance to intergranular corrosion, S30403 (304L) is the better choice. Both stainless steel grades provide excellent performance, making them essential materials in industries worldwide.
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