The standard under the austenitic chromium-nickel stainless steels –
"The classic V2A" (1.4301)

Code

X5CrNi18-10

US standard (AISI)

304

Composition

Alloying components [%]

C:  0 - 0.07

Cr: 17.50 - 19.50

Mn: 0 - 2.00

N: 0 - 0.10

Ni: 8.00 - 10.50

P:  0 - 0.045

S:  0 - 0.015 (0.030*)

Si: 0 - 1.00

Remainder: Fe

Stainless steel grade

A2

Density [g/cm³]

7.9

Nickel migration

[µg/(cm² x week)] in artificial perspiration (pH 4.5)

<0.05

Yield point

Rp0.2 [N/mm²]

≥190

Tensile strength

Rm [N/mm²]

500 - 700

Corrosion resistance

- Good

- Resistant under natural environmental conditions and in light concentrations of chlorine and salt

- Solution annealed for resistance to intergranular corrosion

Machinability

Medium

Weldability

Very good

Other properties

- Austenitic non-magnetic structure with good tenacity

- Can be mechanically polished to a mirror finish

- Suitability for electropolishing: very good

- For use in the temperature range -50 - 600°C

Main uses

- With a stainless steel market share of approx. 33%, 1.4301 is the most commonly used material for components that are subject to moderate stress

- Branches of industry

- Food industry

- Oil industry

- Tank and container construction

- Architecture and construction industry

- Automotive industry

- Jewellery industry