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Overview
This sheet summarises two stainless steel grades available through Shapeways CNC machining services. Data is compiled by Shapeways on the basis of EN 10088-3. For full grade data, refer to the individual Material Properties Sheets.
Grade Comparison
| Property | EN 1.4301(304) | EN 1.4404(316L) |
|---|---|---|
| EN Designation | EN 1.4301 | EN 1.4404 |
| AISI Equivalent | AISI 304 | AISI 316L |
| Chemical Composition | X5CrNi18-10 | X2CrNiMo17-12-2 |
| Key Addition | 18% Cr,10% Ni | 18% Cr,12% Ni,2% Mo |
| Tensile Strength(Rm) | 500-700MPa | 500-700MPa |
| Yield Strength(Rp0.2) | 205MPa min | 200MPa min |
| Elongation(A) | 45%min | 40%min |
| Hardness | ≤215HB | ≤215HB |
| Density | 7.90g/cm³ | 7.98g/cm³ |
| Elastic Modulus | ~193GPa | ~193GPa |
| Corrosion Resistance | Excellent(general) | Superior(incl.chlorides) |
| Coeff.Thermal Expansion | 17.2×10^{-6}/K | 16.5×10^{-6}/K |
| Chloride Resistance | Limited | Good—Mo addition |
| Weldability | Excellent | Excellent(L=no sensitisation) |
| Machinability | Good | Good(slightly harder) |
| Primary Use | General purpose | Marine,medical,chemical |
Corrosion resistance ratings are relative within this grade set. All mechanical values are EN 10088-3 minimums. CTE values measured over 20–100 °C range.
Grade Selection Guide
| Application | Recommended Grade | Rationale |
|---|---|---|
| General industrial & structural | 1.4301(304) | Most cost-effective; excellent general corrosion resistance |
| Marine/offshore/coastal | 1.4404(316L) | Molybdenum provides chloride and pitting resistance |
| Chemical processing | 1.4404(316L) | Better resistance to acids and process chemicals |
| Medical/pharmaceutical | 1.4404(316L) | Industry standard for implants and pharma equipment |
| Food & beverage contact | 1.4301 or 1.4404 | Both suitable;316L preferred for salt or acid contact |
| Welded assemblies | Both grades | 316L L-grade avoids sensitisation;304 excellent weldability |
| Cost-sensitive applications | 1.4301(304) | Lower raw material cost;adequate for most environments |