Aceroinoxidable----What does the "L" designation mean in stainless steel?
The usage of the letter L after the grade number, i.e., 304L, which means that the carbon content is restricted to a max. of 0.03% (normal levels are 0.08% max. and in some alloy grades can be as high as 0.15% max.). This lower level of carbon grade is usually used where "welding" will be performed. The lower level of carbon better to prevent the chromium from being depleted (by forming chrome carbides at the weld site) and therefore allow it to remain over 10 ½% so it can form the "passive" oxide layer that gives stainless its corrosion resistance.
Key Words: Stainless Sheet 304, aceroinoxidable, Stainless Strip, Stainless Steel Plates