304L vs 440C / X105CrMo17: 51% composition overlap. Moderate differences, generally not direct substitutes.
304L vs 440C / X105CrMo17
Side-by-side chemical composition and mechanical property comparison.
Overview
304L
1.4307
Low-carbon version of 304. Maximum 0.030% C prevents sensitization during welding — no post-weld heat treatment needed. The standard choice for welded structures in food, chemical, and pharmaceutical industries. Often dual-certified with 1.4301.
440C / X105CrMo17
1.4125
Highest-hardness standard martensitic stainless steel. Achieves 57-60 HRC — the hardest commonly available stainless grade. Excellent wear resistance from chromium carbides. Used for bearings, races, valve components, surgical instruments, high-end cutlery, and precision molds.
| 304L | 440C / X105CrMo17 | |
|---|---|---|
| Material Number | 1.4307 | 1.4125 |
| Category | Stainless Steel | Stainless Steel |
| Standard | EN 10088-2 | EN 10088-3 |
Chemical composition (wt%)
| Element | 304L | 440C / X105CrMo17 | Overlap |
|---|---|---|---|
| C | 0–0.03% | 0.95–1.2% | No overlap |
| Si | 0–1% | 0–1% | OK |
| Mn | 0–2% | 0–1% | OK |
| P | 0–0.045% | 0–0.04% | OK |
Mechanical properties
| Property | 304L | 440C / X105CrMo17 | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| tensile_strength | 500–700 | ≥ 690 | MPa |
| yield_strength | ≥ 200 | ≥ 440 | MPa |
| elongation | ≥ 45 | — | % |
Compatibility Assessment
304L and 440C / X105CrMo17 have moderate differences (51% overlap). They are generally not direct substitutes. Consider the specific requirements of your application.
Automated assessment based on composition analysis
Frequently Asked Questions
Is 304L the same as 440C / X105CrMo17?
304L and 440C / X105CrMo17 have a 51% composition overlap. They are generally not directly interchangeable.
Can I replace 304L with 440C / X105CrMo17?
Generally not recommended. The compositions differ significantly (51% overlap). These materials have different alloying concepts and are intended for different applications.
What is the difference between 304L and 440C / X105CrMo17?
The main differences are in the following elements: C, Cr. 304L is a Stainless Steel grade, while 440C / X105CrMo17 is a Stainless Steel grade.
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Data provided for reference only. Always verify against the applicable specification for critical applications.
All data is for reference only. Equivalents indicate similarity, not identity. Always verify against the applicable specification for safety-critical applications. materialref.com accepts no liability for decisions based on this data.