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1.Introduction – The Universal Alloy of Modern Industry
Among all stainless steels, 1.4301 (AISI 304 / SUS304 / X5CrNi18-10) stands as the most widely used austenitic alloy.
Its balanced 18/8 Cr-Ni composition gives it exceptional corrosion resistance, workability, and aesthetic appeal.
From household appliances to chemical equipment and automotive parts, 1.4301 remains the backbone of stainless applications worldwide.
2. International Standards & Equivalents
| Standard System | Grade | Common Name |
| EN (Europe) | 1.4301 | X5CrNi18-10 |
| AISI (U.S.) | 304 | 304 Stainless Steel |
| JIS (Japan) | SUS304 | – |
| DIN (Germany) | W.Nr 1.4301 | – |
In short: 1.4301 = 304 = SUS304 = X5CrNi18-10 =AISI 304
3. Composition and Structure — The Classic 18/8 Formula
- Cr 18%: Builds a passive film preventing oxidation
- Ni 8-10%: Stabilizes the austenitic phase
- C ≤ 0.07%: Prevents intergranular corrosion
This balance ensures toughness, ductility, and long-term surface stability – the reason 304 remains the industry standards.
4. Corrosion Resistance
1.4301 performs excellently in:
- Atmospheric and freshwater environments
- Food processing and beverage production
- Chemical and pharmaceutical facilities
Not recommended for high-chloride exposure (e.g., seawater, coastal zones).
For such conditions, use 1.4404 (AISI 316L) with molybdenum for enhanced pitting resistance.
5. Workability & Weldability
Thanks to its fully austenitic structure, 1.4301 is ideal for:
- Deep drawing and precision stamping
- Welding and forming processes
- Surface finishing and polishing
GennHann Stainless Steel operates advanced IMEAS grinding lines and ERP-integrated systems, ensuring consistent finish quality and precision tolerance.
6.Mechanical Properties
- Tensile Strength: 520–720 MPa
- Yield Strength: ~210 MPa
- Elongation: 45–60%
- Impact Toughness: Excellent even at sub-zero temperatures
7.Surface Finishes
| Finish | Description | Common Use |
| 2B | Smooth, cold-rolled | General industrial use |
| No.4 / HL | Brushed, hairline | Architecture, elevators |
| BA | Bright annealed | Appliances, interiors |
| SB | Sandblasted matte | Decorative panels |
| No.1 | Hot-rolled | Heat-resistant equipment |
STAINLESS STEEL SURFACE FINISH
8.Applications
- Food & Beverage: Production lines, tanks, conveyors
- Architecture: Door frames, handrails, facades
- Automotive: Exhausts, trims, fasteners
- Chemical Industry: Vessels, piping, reactors
- Home Appliances: Washers, ovens, refrigerators
9.GennHann Manufacturing Expertise
Founded in 1980, GennHann Stainless Steel specializes in stainless steel slitting, polishing, and surface finishing.
Capabilities:
- Thickness: 0.30–6.00 mm
- Width: 4–1550 mm
- Length: Up to 6 m
- Finishes: No. 1, 12B, No.4, HL, SB, BA
Certifications: ISO 9001, ISO 14064-1, TOYOTA Approved Supplier
10. Sustainability and Smart Manufacturing
GennHann implements ERP digital control and energy-saving systems to minimize carbon emissions.
The company actively develops green manufacturing and supports Industry 4.0 transformation to enhance production efficiency and sustainability.
FAQ
Q1: What is 1.4301 stainless steel?
A1: The European equivalent of AISI 304 / SUS304, an austenitic stainless steel known for corrosion resistance and formability.
Q2: What’s the difference between 304 and 316L?
A2: 316L contains molybdenum, offering better chloride resistance than 304.
Q3: Can 1.4301 be magnetic?
A3: It’s non-magnetic when annealed but may become slightly magnetic after cold forming.
Q4: What finishes are available at GennHann?
A4: 2B, No.4, HL, BA, SB — all customizable with slitting, cutting, and polishing.
Conclusion — Trusted Quality, Global Reliability
1.4301 remains the most universal stainless steel alloy for its balance of performance and versatility.
GennHann Stainless Steel delivers end-to-end stainless solutions – combining precision, sustainability, and 40 years of expertise for customers worldwide.
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