ASTM A312/ ASME SA312 TP904L / UNS N08904 Stainless Steel Seamless Pipe

Stainless Steel 904L, often referred to as SS904L, is an austenitic stainless steel alloy that contains a high percentage of nickel and chromium, along with additions of molybdenum and copper. When comparing SS904L to other stainless steel materials, particularly the more commonly used grades such as 304 and 316 stainless steels, several distinct advantages stand out:

Corrosion Resistance:

• SS904L shines in highly corrosive environments, especially those containing chlorides. Its elevated nickel and molybdenum content gives it superior pitting and crevice corrosion resistance compared to 304 or 316 stainless steels. This is crucial for industries dealing with aggressive chemicals or marine applications.

Resistance to Stress Corrosion Cracking:

• SS904L offers excellent resistance to stress corrosion cracking, a common issue in other stainless steels like 316 when exposed to high temperatures and chloride environments. This makes SS904L particularly suitable for applications in the chemical process industry.

High Temp Performance:

• SS904L maintains its mechanical strength at elevated temperatures better than many other stainless steels. It can be useful in applications that involve heat, making it a reliable choice for heat exchangers and other critical components.

Versatile Applications:

• Due to its combination of high corrosion resistance and good mechanical properties, SS904L is versatile and can be used in a wider array of applications, from pharmaceuticals to petrochemical plants. It can handle demanding environments that may not be suitable for lower-grade stainless steels.

ASTM A312 TP904L Stainless Steel Seamless Pipes Equivalent Grades

UNS N08904 Stainless Steel Seamless Pipe Chemical Composition

Stainless Steel WERKSTOFF NR. 1.4539 Seamless Pipes Mechanical Properties

Applications

1. Chemical Processing: It's widely used in the chemical industry for handling aggressive chemicals and acids due to its corrosion resistance.
2. Oil and Gas: Used in the oil and gas industry for pipelines, particularly in environments with high chloride levels that could cause pitting and stress corrosion cracking.
3. Pharmaceuticals: Employed in pharmaceutical manufacturing processes where cleanliness and resistance to contamination are crucial.
4. Power Generation: Utilized in power plants, particularly in heat exchangers, where high-temperature and corrosive environments are present.
5. Marine Applications: Suitable for marine environments thanks to its ability to resist seawater and chlorides.
6. Pulp and Paper Production: Used in processes that require durability against corrosive substances.
7. Heat Exchangers: Commonly found in heat exchangers due to its thermal conductivity and corrosion resistance.