The key alloying elements in EN 1.4404 are: Chromium (16-18%)
Nickel (10-14%)
Molybdenum (2-3%)
The addition of molybdenum enhances the material’s resistance to etching and crevice corrosion.

Microstructure: The microstructure of EN 1.4404 stainless steel is predominantly austenitic, with a face-centered cubic (FCC) crystal structure.
The austenitic structure provides the material with excellent ductility, high efficiency and weldability.
The microstructure is generally free of carbides and other intermetallic phases, which may impair corrosion properties.

Mechanical Properties: EN 1.4404 stainless steel exhibits high tensile and yield strengths, typically in the range of 485-620 MPa and 170-450 MPa respectively.
The material also has excellent ductility, with crack elongation of approximately 40-60%.
These mechanical properties make EN 1.4404 suitable for structural applications requiring high strength and ductility.

Corrosion resistance: EN 1.4404 The addition of stainless steel to EN 1.4404 enhances its resistance to spot and crevice corrosion, especially in chloride-containing environments.
This improved corrosion resistance makes EN 1.4404 the first choice for applications in marine, coastal and highly corrosive industrial environments.

Solderability: EN 1.4404 stainless steel has good weldability and has a lower carbon content than standard 316 stainless steel.
Proper welding procedures, including preheating, post-weld heat treatment, and the use of appropriate filler materials, are critical to maintaining the corrosion resistance and mechanical properties of materials in heat-affected areas.

Application: EN 1.4404 stainless steel is widely used in structural applications such as:
Offshore and Coastal Structures
Chemical Processing Plant
Pharmaceutical and Food Processing Facilities
Marine and coastal infrastructure (e.g., marinas, marinas)

The material’s enhanced corrosion resistance and structural properties make it a first choice in environments with high exposure to corrosive elements.
The combination of excellent mechanical properties, excellent corrosion resistance and good weldability make EN 1.4404 stainless steel a versatile and reliable choice for structural applications in demanding environments.