S30403

S30403 refers to a specific grade of stainless steel, commonly known as 304L stainless steel. It is a low-carbon austenitic stainless steel that offers excellent corrosion resistance, particularly against oxidizing acids. The "S" designation in S30403 signifies a material composition based on the UNS (Unified Numbering System) for Metals and Alloys. The "304" component indicates it belongs to the 300 series of austenitic stainless steels, which are characterized by their high chromium and nickel content, providing good formability and weldability. The "L" suffix, in this case represented by the "03" in S30403, denotes a lower carbon content compared to standard 304 stainless steel. This reduced carbon level, typically below 0.03%, significantly minimizes carbide precipitation during welding. Such precipitation can occur at grain boundaries and lead to sensitization, making the steel more susceptible to intergranular corrosion in certain environments. Therefore, S30403 is preferred for applications involving welding, especially in thicker sections or where post-weld heat treatment is not feasible. Common applications include chemical processing equipment, food and beverage processing machinery, medical devices, and architectural components where corrosion resistance and weldability are critical. Its balance of properties makes it a versatile and widely used material in many industries.