MECHANICAL PROPERTIES: (PER ASTM A240, A666)

PROCESSING:

Types 304 and 304L cannot be hardened by thermal treatment. Annealing: Heat to 1850o F to 2050 o F and cool at sufficiently high rates through 1500oF to 800oF to avoid precipitation of chromium carbides. Stress Relief Annealing: Cold worked parts should be stress relieved at 750oF for ½ to 2 hours.

FORMING:

Annealed Types 304 and 304L can be fabricated by roll forming, deep drawing, bending and most other fabrication techniques. Due to the high work hardening rate of these materials, intermediate anneals maybe required to successfully fabricate the part.

WELDING:

Types 304 and 304L are weldable by most fusion or resistance welding techniques. If filler metal is required, Type 308 is normally used. Type 304L should be used in heavier sections to reduce the occurrence of carbide precipitation in the heat affected region adjacent to the weld pool

CORROSION:

Types 304 and 304L provides corrosion resistance in a wide range of moderately oxidizing and reducing conditions, fresh water and non-marine applications