2304 stainless steel: Excellent balance of corrosion resistance and mechanical properties

Chemical composition and elemental analysis

2304 stainless steel, also widely known as UNS F68 stainless steel, is an austenitic/duplex stainless steel with excellent properties. The properties of this material are mainly determined by its chemical composition and element content.

In 2304 stainless steel, the content of carbon (C) is less than 0.030%, which effectively reduces the risk of intergranular corrosion. The silicon (Si) content is less than 1.00%, which helps to improve the high temperature stability of the material. The content of manganese (Mn) is less than 2.50%, which helps to maintain its corrosion resistance. Phosphorus (P) and sulfur (S) are less than 0.035% and 0.030%, respectively, which helps reduce the risk of pitting and corrosion.

The content of chromium (Cr) in 2304 stainless steel is between 21.50% and 24.50%, providing good corrosion resistance. The content of nickel (Ni) is between 3.00% and 5.50%, which helps to enhance the mechanical properties of the material. Molybdenum (Mo) content is trace, ranging from 0.05% to 0.60%, which increases resistance to corrosion. The content of nitrogen (N) is between 0.05% and 0.20%, which helps to maintain the strength and toughness of stainless steel. The copper (Cu) content is between 0.05% and 0.60%, providing corrosion resistance.

Physical and mechanical properties

2304 stainless steel has a density of 7.8 kg/dm³, which makes it very practical in many applications. In addition, its thermal conductivity is moderate, making it stable in high temperature environments. In the temperature range from 0 ° C to 100 ° C, the linear expansion coefficient is 13×10^-6/K, which helps to reduce stress during temperature fluctuations.

In terms of mechanical properties, 2304 stainless steel in the delivery state shows A tensile strength (RM/MPa) of 600, an extension strength (Rp0.2/MPa) of 400, and A/% elongation of 25. These performance parameters make it ideal for a variety of industrial applications.

Corresponding brand in each country

In the Chinese national standard (GB), the digital grade of 2304 stainless steel is S23043, and the new grade is 022Cr23Ni4MoCuN. In ASTM, the material is identified as S32304. The SAE standard does not specify a specific grade, but it is usually denoted by UNS standard 2304. Other countries may use different standards and grades to indicate 2304 stainless steel.

Heat treatment

The hardness of 2304 stainless steel can be adjusted under specific application conditions, and there is no fixed value. The heating temperature and method will vary according to the specific application requirements, and rapid cooling is usually required to ensure the material's performance and dimensional stability.

Application analysis

Due to its excellent corrosion resistance and mechanical properties balance, 2304 stainless steel is widely used in many fields:

Ocean engineering

Due to its resistance to seawater corrosion, 2304 stainless steel is ideal for Marine engineering and can be used to manufacture components.

Chemical industry

In the chemical industry, 2304 stainless steel is used to manufacture equipment such as chemical reactors, storage tanks and pipelines, especially in strong acid media.

unit

In building structures, 2304 stainless steel can improve corrosion resistance, especially in saltwater environments, which makes it the material of choice for architects and engineers.

Food processing

In the food processing industry, 2304 stainless steel is widely used to ensure the hygiene and safety of products.

In general, 2304 stainless steel is a versatile material suitable for applications where corrosion resistance and mechanical properties are required. Whether in the fields of Marine engineering, chemical industry, construction or food processing, 2304 stainless steel can play its unique advantages.