Among the many stainless steel grades available, 904L stainless steel sheet/plate has earned its reputation as a high-performance material for demanding industries. With superior corrosion resistance and reliable mechanical strength, 904L is widely used in chemical processing, marine equipment, offshore platforms, pharmaceutical production, and desalination systems.
In this article, we will take a closer look at the features, specifications, applications, and purchasing considerations of 904L stainless steel sheet/plate—helping engineers, procurement managers, and end-users understand why it is an excellent choice for challenging environments.
904L is a high-alloy austenitic stainless steel, sometimes referred to as a “super austenitic stainless steel.” It is designed to resist aggressive corrosion conditions that exceed the capabilities of standard 300-series grades.
Key Chemical Composition (typical range):
Chromium (Cr): 19.0–23.0%
Nickel (Ni): 23.0–28.0%
Molybdenum (Mo): 4.0–5.0%
Copper (Cu): 1.0–2.0%
Carbon (C): ≤ 0.02%
This combination of high nickel, molybdenum, and copper provides exceptional resistance against sulfuric acid, phosphoric acid, seawater, and chloride-rich environments.
Mechanical Properties:
Tensile Strength: ~490 MPa
Yield Strength (0.2% offset): ~220 MPa
Elongation (50 mm): ~36%
Hardness: ~150 HB (HRB 70–90)
These properties allow 904L stainless steel to withstand harsh operating conditions while maintaining ductility and toughness.
Due to its exceptional corrosion resistance and strength, 904L stainless steel sheet/plate is widely adopted across multiple industries:
Chemical & Petrochemical: Reactors, tanks, heat exchangers, pipelines, and vessels exposed to aggressive acids.
Marine & Offshore: Seawater desalination plants, marine platforms, ship components, and seawater pipelines.
Pharmaceutical & Medical: Storage tanks, cleanroom equipment, and sanitary piping systems.
Power & Energy: Heat exchangers and cooling systems in nuclear, thermal, and renewable energy plants.
Architecture & Decoration: Facades, wall panels, elevators, and high-end decorative surfaces requiring durability and aesthetics.
Buying Considerations
When sourcing 904L stainless steel sheets and plates, buyers should pay attention to several factors to ensure quality and reliability:
Material Certification – Request mill test certificates (MTC) to verify chemical composition and mechanical properties.
Dimensional Accuracy – Check thickness tolerance, flatness, and surface condition for compatibility with fabrication needs.
Surface Quality – Ensure surfaces are free from scratches, oxidation, or defects that may compromise performance.
Cutting & Processing Services – Reliable suppliers provide custom cutting, bending, and finishing according to project drawings.
Welding Compatibility – Confirm suitability for downstream processing such as welding and forming.
Packaging & Delivery – Proper anti-rust packaging and stable supply capacity are essential, especially for bulk projects.
Conclusion：
At CPS Stainless Steel, we specialize in the production and supply of 904L stainless steel sheet and plate in a variety of thicknesses, widths, lengths, and surface finishes. With advanced processing equipment, strict quality control, and a monthly supply capacity of up to 10,000 pieces, we ensure reliable delivery for both small orders and large-scale industrial projects.
Whether you require cut-to-size plates, mirror-polished finishes, or custom solutions, our team is ready to provide high-quality products backed by professional service and international standards.
904L stainless steel sheet/plate is a premium material designed for the toughest conditions, offering superior corrosion resistance, mechanical strength, and versatility. From chemical processing plants to marine engineering and architectural applications, it continues to deliver outstanding performance where ordinary stainless steels fall short.
If you are seeking a dependable 904L stainless steel sheet/plate supplier, CPS Stainless Steel is your trusted partner—committed to providing materials that meet the highest standards of safety, durability, and cost-effectiveness.