1.Resistance to corrosion in oxidizing environments is a result of the 18 to 19% chromium that the 304 alloys contain.Resistance to moderately aggressive organic acids is a result of the 9 to 11% nickel that the 304 alloys contain.At times, alloy 304L may show a lower corrosion rate than the higher carbon Alloy 304; otherwise, the 304, 304L, and 304H may be considered to perform uniformly in most corrosive environments.Alloy 304L is preferred for use in environments sufficiently corrosive to cause intergranular corrosion of welds and heat-affected zones on susceptible alloys.

2.Good oxidation resistance in intermittent service to 1600°F and in continuous service to 1690°F.CContinuous use of 304 in the 800-1580°F range is not recommended if subsequent aqueous corrosion resistance is important.Grade 304L is more resistant to carbide precipitation and can be heated into the above temperature range.

3.Excellent welding properties; post-weld annealing is not required when welding thin sections. Two important considerations in producing weld joints in the austenitic stainless steels are:preservation of corrosion resistance.avoidance of cracking.

4.Its austenitic structure allows it to be deep-drawn without intermediate annealing, Making this the stainless steel grade of choice in the manufacturing of sinks, hollow-ware and saucepans.These grades work harden rapidly. To relieve stresses produced in severe forming or spinning, parts should be full annealed or stress relief annealed as soon as possible after forming.

5.The use of chip breakers is advised since the chips can be stringy. Stainless steel work harden rapidly, heavy positive feeds, sharp tooling, and a rigid set-up should be used.of cut below the work-hardened layer resulting from the previous passes.