Stainless Steel 304L Flanges: A Comprehensive Guide by ASC LLP
At ASC LLP, we take pride in being a leading supplier and manufacturer of high-quality stainless steel products, including the versatile and widely-used 304L stainless steel flanges. These flanges are essential components in various industries due to their exceptional properties, making them a preferred choice for a range of applications. In this article, we will delve into what 304L stainless steel flanges are, explore their properties, and discuss the advantages they offer.
What is 304L Stainless Steel Flanges?
304L stainless steel flanges are components made from 304L stainless steel, a low-carbon version of the standard 304 stainless steel alloy. The ‘L’ in 304L stands for “low carbon,” indicating that this alloy contains a lower carbon content than its counterpart, 304 SS. The reduced carbon content in 304L grade stainless steel flanges enhances their resistance to sensitization (grain boundary carbide precipitation), which can occur during welding. This makes 304L stainless steel an ideal material for applications where welding is required without compromising the corrosion resistance of the steel.
Flanges Stainless Steel 304L Properties and Characteristics
Understanding the properties of 304L stainless steel flanges is crucial for determining their suitability for various applications. Below are some key properties of flanges 304L stainless steel:
- Corrosion Resistance: One of the most significant advantages of 304L stainless steel flanges is their excellent resistance to corrosion. The lower carbon content minimizes the formation of carbide precipitates during welding, which can lead to intergranular corrosion. This property makes these flanges suitable for use in environments where they may be exposed to corrosive substances, such as in chemical processing or marine applications.
- Weldability: As mentioned earlier, 304L gradeSS flanges exhibit superior weldability compared to standard 304 stainless steel. The reduced carbon content allows for easier welding without the need for post-weld annealing, making them an ideal choice for projects that require extensive welding.
- Mechanical Properties: 304L SS flanges offer a balanced combination of mechanical strength and ductility. They have good tensile and yield strength, making them durable and capable of withstanding high-pressure environments. Additionally, their excellent ductility ensures that they can be easily formed into various shapes and sizes.
- Temperature Resistance: These flanges maintain their structural integrity even at high temperatures, making them suitable for use in applications that involve extreme heat. They can resist scaling and retain their strength at temperatures up to 800°C.
- Versatility: The versatility of 304L SS flanges is one of their key strengths. They can be used in a wide range of industries, including petrochemical, oil and gas, food processing, pharmaceuticals, and more. Their ability to withstand various environmental conditions makes them a go-to choice for many applications.
Advantages of 304L Stainless Steel Flanges
Choosing 304L stainless steel flanges for your project comes with several advantages that set them apart from other materials. Here are some of the key benefits:
- Corrosion Resistance: The most notable advantage of 304L stainless steel flanges is their exceptional resistance to corrosion. This makes them suitable for use in environments where they are exposed to chemicals, acids, and other corrosive agents. Whether used in chemical processing plants, water treatment facilities, or marine applications, these flanges will provide long-lasting performance without succumbing to rust or corrosion.
- Ease of Fabrication: 304L grade stainless steel flanges are easy to fabricate, thanks to their excellent formability and weldability. They can be easily shaped, cut, and welded to meet the specific requirements of your project. This ease of fabrication translates to reduced production costs and faster project completion times.
- Hygiene and Cleanliness: In industries where hygiene is paramount, such as food processing and pharmaceuticals, 304L SS flanges are the preferred choice. The non-porous surface of stainless steel prevents the accumulation of bacteria and other contaminants, making it easy to clean and sanitize.
- Cost-Effective Solution: While stainless steel may have a higher upfront cost compared to some other materials, the long-term benefits make it a cost-effective solution. The durability, low maintenance requirements, and resistance to corrosion of 304L stainless steel flanges ensure that they will provide a long service life, reducing the need for frequent replacements and repairs.
- Aesthetic Appeal: In addition to their functional advantages, SS 304L flanges also offer an aesthetic benefit. The sleek and polished appearance of stainless steel makes it an attractive option for applications where appearance matters, such as in architectural designs or visible piping systems.
- Environmental Benefits: Stainless steel is 100% recyclable, making 304L stainless steel flanges an environmentally friendly choice. The use of these flanges contributes to sustainable development and reduces the environmental impact of your projects.
Schedule and Size Chart for Stainless Steel 304L Flanges
| Nominal Pipe Size (NPS) | Schedule (SCH) | Outside Diameter (OD) | Flange Thickness (T) | Bolt Circle Diameter (BCD) | Number of Bolts | Bolt Diameter |
| 1/2″ | 10, 40, 80 | 21.3 mm (0.84″) | 11.2 mm (0.44″) | 47.6 mm (1.88″) | 4 | 12.7 mm (0.5″) |
| 3/4″ | 10, 40, 80 | 26.7 mm (1.05″) | 12.7 mm (0.5″) | 57.2 mm (2.25″) | 4 | 12.7 mm (0.5″) |
| 1″ | 10, 40, 80 | 33.4 mm (1.32″) | 14.3 mm (0.56″) | 63.5 mm (2.5″) | 4 | 12.7 mm (0.5″) |
| 1-1/2″ | 10, 40, 80 | 48.3 mm (1.9″) | 15.9 mm (0.62″) | 88.9 mm (3.5″) | 4 | 15.9 mm (0.62″) |
| 2″ | 10, 40, 80 | 60.3 mm (2.37″) | 17.5 mm (0.69″) | 101.6 mm (4″) | 4 | 15.9 mm (0.62″) |
| 3″ | 10, 40, 80 | 88.9 mm (3.5″) | 19.1 mm (0.75″) | 133.4 mm (5.25″) | 4 | 15.9 mm (0.62″) |
| 4″ | 10, 40, 80 | 114.3 mm (4.5″) | 23.9 mm (0.94″) | 171.5 mm (6.75″) | 8 | 19.1 mm (0.75″) |
| 6″ | 10, 40, 80 | 168.3 mm (6.63″) | 25.4 mm (1″) | 222.3 mm (8.75″) | 8 | 19.1 mm (0.75″) |
Mechanical Properties Chart for Stainless Steel 304L Flanges
| Property | Value |
| Tensile Strength | 485 MPa (70,000 psi) |
| Yield Strength | 170 MPa (25,000 psi) |
| Elongation | 40% |
| Hardness (Brinell) | 147 HB |
| Modulus of Elasticity | 193 GPa (28 x 10^6 psi) |
| Poisson’s Ratio | 0.27 – 0.30 |
| Impact Strength (Charpy V) | 150 J |
Specifications Chart
| Specification | Details |
| ASTM Specification | ASTM A182 / A182M |
| ASME Specification | ASME SA182 / SA182M |
| Size Range | 1/2″ to 48″ (DN15 to DN1200) |
| Pressure Rating | 150# to 2500# |
| Type | Weld Neck, Slip-On, Blind, Socket Weld, Lap Joint, Threaded |
| Standards | ANSI B16.5, ANSI B16.47, MSS SP44, API 605 |
Chemical Composition Chart
| Element | Percentage (%) |
| Carbon (C) | Max 0.03 |
| Manganese (Mn) | Max 2.00 |
| Phosphorus (P) | Max 0.045 |
| Sulfur (S) | Max 0.03 |
| Silicon (Si) | Max 1.00 |
| Chromium (Cr) | 18.00 – 20.00 |
| Nickel (Ni) | 8.00 – 12.00 |
| Nitrogen (N) | Max 0.10 |
| Iron (Fe) | Balance |
Physical Properties Chart
| Property | Value |
| Density | 8.0 g/cm³ (0.289 lb/in³) |
| Melting Point | 1400°C – 1450°C (2550°F – 2650°F) |
| Thermal Conductivity | 16.2 W/m.K (9.4 BTU/hr/ft²/ft/°F) |
| Specific Heat | 500 J/kg.K (0.12 BTU/lb/°F) |
| Electrical Resistivity | 72 microhm-cm |
| Magnetic Permeability | 1.02 – 1.10 |
Application Chart
| Industry | Applications |
| Chemical Processing | Piping systems exposed to corrosive chemicals |
| Oil and Gas | High-pressure pipelines, refineries, offshore platforms |
| Food and Beverage | Sanitary processing equipment and piping |
| Pharmaceuticals | Cleanroom piping, manufacturing equipment |
| Water Treatment | Piping systems, desalination plants |
| Marine | Shipbuilding, offshore structures |
| Power Generation | Boiler feedwater systems, heat exchangers |
At ASC LLP, we understand the importance of using high-quality materials for your projects. 304L SS flanges offer a combination of excellent corrosion resistance, mechanical strength, and ease of fabrication, making them a versatile and reliable choice for a wide range of applications. Whether you are in chemical processing, oil and gas, food and beverage, or any other industry, our 304L grade stainless steel flanges will meet your needs and exceed your expectations.
Choose ASC LLP as your trusted supplier for 304L SS flanges, and experience the benefits of top-notch products backed by our commitment to quality and customer satisfaction.
Global Reach
Amardeep Steel Centre boasts a robust global presence, committed to delivering unparalleled service and quality to clients around the world. Our dedication to prompt delivery and exceptional customer care sets us apart in the industry. Major corporations across the USA, Europe, Asia, and other regions place their trust in our high-quality Stainless Steel 304L Flanges. This widespread trust underscores our reputation for reliability and excellence. By consistently meeting and exceeding the expectations of our international clientele, we continue to solidify our position as a leader in the global steel market.
Countries We Export To
UNITED STATES, EUROPE, UK, UAE, SAUDI ARABIA, OMAN, KUWAIT, JORDAN, QATAR, INDONESIA, MALAYSIA, BRAZIL, SPAIN, ITALY, FRANCE, GERMANY, BAHRAIN, SRI LANKA, AZERBAIJAN, AUSTRALIA, AUSTRIA, PHILIPPINES, TURKEY, RUSSIA, IRAN, IRAQ, CANADA, KOREA, JAPAN, YEMEN, FINLAND, ZIMBABWE, HUNGARY, PORTUGAL, VIETNAM, MOROCCO, THAILAND, SOUTH AFRICA, MEXICO, SINGAPORE, GREECE, KUWAIT, POLAND, NEW ZEALAND, SWEDEN, SWITZERLAND, BELGIUM, BHUTAN, BANGLADESH, TAIWAN, ROMANIA, CAMBODIA, KAZAKHSTAN, AFGHANISTAN.
