303 vs X2CrNiN18-7: 58% composition overlap. Moderate differences, generally not direct substitutes.
303 vs X2CrNiN18-7
Side-by-side chemical composition and mechanical property comparison.
Overview
303
1.4305
Free-machining austenitic stainless steel — the most machinable of all austenitic grades. 0.15-0.35% S (as MnS inclusions) provides excellent chip-breaking. Trade-off: lower corrosion resistance than 304, poor weldability (hot cracking risk), and not suitable for cold forming. Used for high-volume automatic lathe parts: fittings, valves, screws, shafts, and precision components.
X2CrNiN18-7
1.4318
Nitrogen-alloyed work-hardening austenitic — AISI 301LN. Lower Ni (6-8%) than 304 makes it metastable: cold work transforms austenite to martensite → UTS up to 1400 MPa in full-hard condition. N addition compensates low C for corrosion and strength. Used for rail car bodies, springs, structural parts requiring high strength-to-weight ratio, and architectural cladding.
| 303 | X2CrNiN18-7 | |
|---|---|---|
| Material Number | 1.4305 | 1.4318 |
| Category | Stainless Steel | Stainless Steel |
| Standard | EN 10088-3 | EN 10088-2 |
Chemical composition (wt%)
| Element | 303 | X2CrNiN18-7 | Overlap |
|---|---|---|---|
| C | 0–0.1% | 0–0.03% | OK |
| Si | 0–1% | 0–1% | OK |
| Mn | 0–2% | 0–2% | OK |
| P | 0–0.045% | — | — |
Mechanical properties
| Property | 303 | X2CrNiN18-7 | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| tensile_strength | 500–750 | 550–750 | MPa |
| yield_strength | ≥ 190 | ≥ 250 | MPa |
| elongation | ≥ 35 | ≥ 40 | % |
Compatibility Assessment
303 and X2CrNiN18-7 have moderate differences (58% overlap). They are generally not direct substitutes. Consider the specific requirements of your application.
Automated assessment based on composition analysis
Frequently Asked Questions
Is 303 the same as X2CrNiN18-7?
303 and X2CrNiN18-7 have a 58% composition overlap. They are generally not directly interchangeable.
Can I replace 303 with X2CrNiN18-7?
Generally not recommended. The compositions differ significantly (58% overlap). These materials have different alloying concepts and are intended for different applications.
What is the difference between 303 and X2CrNiN18-7?
The main differences are in the following elements: Cr, Ni. 303 is a Stainless Steel grade, while X2CrNiN18-7 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.