SAE 304 stainless steel optimal high temperature strength. The carbon content of 304L (UNS 30403) is restricted to a maximum of 0.03%, which prevents sensitization during welding. Sensitization is the formation of chromium carbides along grain boundaries when a stainless steel is exposed to temperatures in the range of ~–. The subsequent formation of chromium carbide results in reduced corrosion resistance along the grain boundary leaving the stainless steel susceptible to unanticipated corrosion in an environment where 304 would be expected to be corrosion resistant. This grain boundary corrosive attack is known as intergranular corrosion. The carbon content of 304 (UNS 30400) is restricted
Stainless steel on the surface. A final finish can then be applied to achieve the desired aesthetic appearance. Most of the world stainless steel production is produced by the following process Hot rolled coils are pickled in acid solutions to remove the oxide scale on the surface, then subsequently cold rolled (Sendzimir rolling mills), annealed in a protective atmosphere, until the desired thickness and surface finish is obtained. Further operations such as slitting, tube forming, etc. can be carried out in downstream facilities. Hot rolled bars are straightened, then machined to the required tolerance and finish. Wire rod coils are subsequently processed