If you are looking for the right stainless steel grade where hardness and corrosion resistance are critical, comparing 1.4404 (316L) and 1.4021 (420) stainless steel is essential. Both are widely used in industrial, mechanical, and decorative applications - but their chemical composition, hardness, and application suitability differ significantly.
What is 1.4404 stainless steel?
1.4404 is a low-carbon austenitic stainless steel, also known as 316L, that offers improved pitting corrosion resistance compared to standard grades. Due to its high corrosion resistance and good weldability, 1.4404 is widely used in various industries, including chemical, pharmaceutical, and food processing, as well as in construction and automotive parts.
What is 1.4021 stainless steel?
1.4021 is a martensitic stainless steel (also known as AISI 420) that offers good strength, hardness, and wear resistance, along with moderate corrosion resistance. It is well-suited for use in moderately corrosive, chloride-free environments (such as fresh water, soaps, or organic acids), but is not suitable for marine environments. Common applications include pump and valve components, shafts, and cutlery.
1.4404 vs 1.4021 Stainless Steel：Key Differences
| Property | 1.4404 (AISI 316L) | 1.4021 (AISI 420 / SUS420J1) |
|---|---|---|
| Type | Austenitic stainless steel | Martensitic stainless steel |
| Standard | EN 10088-1, ASTM A240 | EN 10088-1, ASTM A240 |
| Chemical Composition (%): | ||
| C (Carbon) | ≤ 0.03 | 0.16 – 0.25 |
| Cr (Chromium) | 16.5 – 18.5 | 12.0 – 14.0 |
| Ni (Nickel) | 10.0 – 13.0 | ≤ 1.0 |
| Mo (Molybdenum) | 2.0 – 2.5 | - |
| Hardness (HV) | 150–190 HV (annealed) | 500–600 HV (quenched and tempered) |
| Tensile Strength (MPa) | 485 min | 700–950 |
| Yield Strength (MPa) | 170 min | 450–650 |
| Elongation (%) | 40 min | 20 |
1.4404 vs. 1.4021 stainless steel: Hardness and Strength
With proper heat treatment, 1.4021 stainless steel can achieve a hardness (HV) of up to 600, offering excellent wear resistance, making it an ideal choice for cutting tools, valves, and shafts. However, due to its high carbon content, its corrosion resistance is poor, requiring preheating and post-weld treatment when welding.
1.4404 stainless steel (316L) is an austenitic stainless steel with excellent corrosion resistance, especially in chloride and acidic environments. While its hardness (150-190 HV) is significantly lower than 1.4021, it offers improved ductility, weldability, and toughness, even at low temperatures. It is commonly used in chemical, marine, and food processing applications, where hygiene and corrosion protection are crucial.
Which stainless steel is harder, 1.4404 or 1.4021?
1.4021 (420) is significantly harder. After quenching, it can reach a hardness of 500-600 HV, while 1.4404 has a hardness of approximately 180 HV.
Can 1.4404 be hardened like 1.4021?
No. 1.4404 is an austenitic steel and cannot be hardened by heat treatment. It can only be hardened slightly by cold working.
Which stainless steel is more expensive, 1.4404 or 1.4021?
1.4404 (316L) is generally 10–20% more expensive because it has a higher nickel and molybdenum content and better corrosion resistance.
Market Insight:
Global demand for 420 stainless steel (1.4021) continues to grow in the tooling and mechanical industries, while 316L (1.4404) remains dominant in the marine, food, and chemical sectors due to its corrosion resistance and weldability.
1.4404 vs. 1.4021 stainless steel: Price (2025)
| Grade | Finish | Thickness | Average Price (USD/kg) | Trend |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1.4404 (316L) | 2B / BA | 1–6 mm | $3.5 – $4.2 | Stable |
| 1.4021 (420) | 2B / Polished | 1–6 mm | $2.6 – $3.1 | Increasing (tool steel demand) |
If you have a project need for 316L 1.4404 stainless steel bar, we welcome your order. GNEE has a large inventory of popular products for you to choose from. We process these bars into a variety of practical product forms, including sheet, coil, tube, bar, and wire. For detailed chemical composition and free samples, please contact our factory today. We offer competitive pricing and excellent service.
