304 / X5CrNi18-10 vs X2CrNiMo17-12-2: 73% composition overlap. Some similarities but notable differences in alloying elements.
304 / X5CrNi18-10 vs X2CrNiMo17-12-2
Side-by-side chemical composition and mechanical property comparison.
Overview
304 / X5CrNi18-10
1.4301
The world's most widely used stainless steel — the original 18/8 austenitic. Good corrosion resistance in atmospheric, organic, and inorganic environments. Excellent formability and weldability. Not recommended for chloride-rich or marine environments (use 316L). Used in food processing, kitchen equipment, architecture, tanks, and general engineering.
X2CrNiMo17-12-2
1.4404
Low-carbon molybdenum-bearing austenitic stainless steel, widely known as AISI 316L. The Mo addition (2–2.5%) significantly improves resistance to pitting and crevice corrosion compared to 1.4301 (304). Low carbon content (max 0.03%) ensures resistance to intergranular corrosion after welding without post-weld heat treatment. Standard grade for pharmaceutical, petrochemical, chemical and marine applications. PREN 23–29.
| 304 / X5CrNi18-10 | X2CrNiMo17-12-2 | |
|---|---|---|
| Material Number | 1.4301 | 1.4404 |
| Category | Stainless Steel | Stainless Steel |
| Standard | EN 10088-2 | EN 10088-3 |
Chemical composition (wt%)
| Element | 304 / X5CrNi18-10 | X2CrNiMo17-12-2 | Overlap |
|---|---|---|---|
| C | 0–0.07% | ≤ 0.03% | OK |
| Si | 0–1% | ≤ 1% | OK |
| Mn | 0–2% | ≤ 2% | OK |
| P | 0–0.045% | ≤ 0.045% | OK |
Mechanical properties
| Property | 304 / X5CrNi18-10 | X2CrNiMo17-12-2 | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| tensile_strength | 500–700 | — | MPa |
| yield_strength | ≥ 190 | — | MPa |
| elongation | ≥ 45 | — | % |
Compatibility Assessment
304 / X5CrNi18-10 and X2CrNiMo17-12-2 share some characteristics (73% overlap) but have notable differences. They may be substitutable in some applications but not all. Verify suitability carefully.
Automated assessment based on composition analysis
Frequently Asked Questions
Is 304 / X5CrNi18-10 the same as X2CrNiMo17-12-2?
304 / X5CrNi18-10 and X2CrNiMo17-12-2 have a 73% composition overlap. For most purposes, they can be considered similar.
Can I replace 304 / X5CrNi18-10 with X2CrNiMo17-12-2?
In many cases, yes. The compositions overlap significantly (73%). However, always verify mechanical property requirements and heat treatment compatibility for your specific application.
What is the difference between 304 / X5CrNi18-10 and X2CrNiMo17-12-2?
The main differences are in the following elements: Cr, Ni. 304 / X5CrNi18-10 is a Stainless Steel grade, while X2CrNiMo17-12-2 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.