If you're looking for high-performance stainless steel coil for your industrial, chemical, or food processing project, you may have come across EN 1.4401 and EN 1.4404 (commonly referred to as AISI 316 and AISI 316L). Both grades belong to the family of molybdenum-containing austenitic stainless steels, offering exceptional corrosion resistance, strength, and durability.
However, the subtle differences between 1.4401 and 1.4404 can significantly impact your project's performance, weld quality, and lifecycle costs. Let's analyze which is best for your specific application.
What's the difference between 1.4401 and 1.4404?
The primary difference lies in carbon content: 1.4401 (AISI 316) has a higher carbon content (≤ 0.07%), resulting in slightly higher tensile strength but also more susceptible to carbide precipitation during welding. 1.4404 (AISI 316L) has a lower carbon content (≤ 0.03%), resulting in better weldability and excellent resistance to intergranular corrosion after welding or stress relief.
In short: If you require greater mechanical strength and cost-effectiveness, choose 1.4401 stainless steel. If your project involves frequent welding, high-temperature exposure, or a chloride-rich environment, choose 1.4404.
EN 1.4401 vs EN 1.4404 Stainless Steel Coil Strips
| Property | EN 1.4401 | EN 1.4404 |
|---|---|---|
| Equivalent Grade | AISI 316 | AISI 316L |
| Chemical Composition | C ≤ 0.07%, Cr 16.5–18.5%, Ni 10–13%, Mo 2–2.5% | C ≤ 0.03%, Cr 16.5–18.5%, Ni 10–13%, Mo 2–2.5% |
| Microstructure | Austenitic | Austenitic |
| Density | 8.0 g/cm³ | 8.0 g/cm³ |
| Yield Strength | ≥ 210 MPa | ≥ 220 MPa |
| Tensile Strength | 530–680 MPa | 500–700 MPa |
| Elongation | ≥ 40% | ≥ 45% |
| Standards | EN 10088-1 / ASTM A240 | EN 10088-1 / ASTM A240 |
| Typical Forms | Coil, strip, sheet | Coil, strip, sheet |
| Surface Finish | 2B, BA, No.4, HL | 2B, BA, No.4, HL |
Corrosion Resistance
Both 1.4401 and 1.4404 perform excellently in marine, chemical, and mildly acidic environments, thanks to their molybdenum content, which enhances resistance to pitting and crevice corrosion.
| Environment | Recommended Grade | Reason |
|---|---|---|
| Marine & Offshore | 1.4404 | Superior resistance to chloride attack |
| Food & Beverage | 1.4404 | Better weldability and hygiene safety |
| Chemical Process Plants | Both | Excellent resistance to acid and chloride |
| Architectural & Structural | 1.4401 | High strength and good cost efficiency |
1.4404 Stainless Steel Coil Strips Price Trend (Q4 2025)
| Product | Thickness | Surface Finish | Price Range (USD/kg) |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1.4401 Coil Strip | 0.5–5.0 mm | 2B / No.4 | 3.0 – 3.8 |
| 1.4404 Coil Strip | 0.5–5.0 mm | 2B / No.4 / BA | 3.2 – 4.1 |
Note: Prices fluctuate depending on nickel and molybdenum costs, surface finish, and order volume.
Bulk orders above 5 tons can receive factory-direct discounts.
Applications of 1.4401 & 1.4404 Coil Strips
Both grades are widely used in industries where formability, corrosion resistance, and cleanliness are crucial:
Food & Beverage Equipment
Heat Exchanger and Condenser Components
Chemical Storage Tanks and Piping
Pharmaceutical and Biotechnology Processing
Architectural Trim and Decorative Panels
Marine Hardware and Coastal Equipment
Gnee supplies both 1.4401 and 1.4404 stainless steel coil strips with ISO 9001, SGS, and BV certifications, ensuring consistency, reliability, and fast delivery.
✅ Large Inventory: Over 2,000 tons of 316/316L stainless steel coil strips in stock.
✅ Wide Size Range: Thickness 0.3–14 mm, width up to 1500 mm, customizable coils.
✅ Surface Finish Options: 2B, BA, No.4, HL, mirror polished.
✅ Processing Services: Slitting, cutting, polishing, edge trimming, and forming.
✅ Quality Control: 100% PMI and mechanical property testing before shipment.
✅ Packaging: Moisture-proof film + wooden pallets or boxes for sea freight.
✅ Flexible Payment Terms: T/T, L/C, or customized trade agreements.
✅ Delivery Time: 7–15 working days worldwide.
