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Weldability
Stainless steel 1.4301 is generally very easy to weld, with or without filler material. Compared to other stainless steels it is among the easiest to weld, primarily due to its low carbon content. Methods such as TIG or MAG welding are especially suitable, although most common welding processes are generally suitable. Preheating is normally not required. Depending on the service conditions, solution annealing after welding can be advisable. Further heat treatments are generally not necessary.
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Machinability
1.4301 is only moderately machinable compared with other steels because it tends to work-harden during cutting. Specialized tool geometries can partially compensate for this by improving chip formation. Appropriately shaped tools, stable feed rates, and suitable cutting parameters significantly improve the machining process.
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Forgeability
The material forges well. It is heated up to approx. 1100°C and forged in the range 950–1180°C, followed by cooling in water or air. Scale and temper colors usually form, which can reduce corrosion resistance; it is therefore recommended to remove scale or discoloration by chemical or mechanical methods.
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Magnetizability
Due to its austenitic structure, 1.4301 is non-magnetic in the annealed condition; heavy cold deformation can, however, induce partial magnetic behavior.
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Corrosion resistance
In natural atmospheres and against many organic and inorganic acids, AISI 304 shows very good corrosion resistance. Contact with fresh water and low-salt/chloride environments is generally unproblematic. However, the material is susceptible to corrosion in seawater and environments with high chloride concentrations. In addition, under unfavorable thermal exposure—especially after welding—chromium carbide precipitation at grain boundaries can lead to intergranular corrosion.
