Good corrosion resistance: Resists atmospheric exposure, water vapor, nitric acid and most organic acids. However, in chloride-containing environments, such as prolonged contact with salt spray or sweat, it is prone to pitting corrosion.
Excellent formability: Suitable for cold forming processes such as bending, drawing, stamping, spinning, flattening and slotting.
Significant work hardening: Moderate strength in the annealed condition; strength increases markedly after cold drawing, rolling or bending. Available in soft, 1/4 hard, half hard, full hard and other tempers.
Good weldability: Can be welded by conventional methods. Prolonged exposure to 450–850°C may cause intergranular corrosion; 304L is recommended for more demanding applications.
Magnetic behavior: Essentially non-magnetic in the annealed condition; may become slightly magnetic after cold working. Magnetism alone should not be used to identify the material.