Stainless Steel

Grade 304 (1.4301, also known as V2A in Germany) is the most widely used stainless steel, suitable for general-purpose applications. Grade 316L (1.4404, known as V4A) contains 2-3% molybdenum, which significantly improves resistance to chlorides and aggressive chemicals. Choose 316L for marine environments, chemical processing, pharmaceutical equipment and anywhere exposed to salt or acidic media.

ULAMEX carries a comprehensive range of austenitic grades including 1.4301 (304), 1.4307 (304L), 1.4404 (316L) and 1.4571 (316Ti). We also stock ferritic grade 1.4016 (430) and duplex grade 1.4462 (2205). All grades are available in profiles, sheets, rods and pipes — request a quote for current stock availability.

Grades 1.4301 (304) and 1.4404 (316L) are approved for food contact applications per EU Regulation 1935/2004. For environments involving salt, acidic foods or cleaning agents containing chlorides, 316L is the preferred choice. Surface finish 2B or BA provides the smooth, non-porous surface required for hygiene compliance.

Austenitic grades (304, 316, 316Ti) are generally non-magnetic in the annealed condition, though cold working may induce slight magnetism. Ferritic grades (430) and martensitic grades (410, 420) are magnetic. Duplex grades (2205) exhibit weak magnetism due to their mixed microstructure.

For standard outdoor applications with minimal salt exposure, grade 1.4301 (304) is suitable. For coastal areas, swimming pool environments or locations with de-icing salt, grade 1.4404 (316L) is recommended. In severe marine or industrial atmospheres, duplex 2205 provides the highest corrosion resistance.

2B is the standard cold-rolled mill finish with a smooth, slightly reflective surface. BA (Bright Annealed) is produced in a controlled atmosphere for a more reflective, smoother finish. Brushed (No.4) has a directional satin texture created by mechanical polishing. Mirror (No.8) is a highly polished, reflective surface. The choice depends on the intended application — 2B for industrial use, BA for hygienic applications, brushed and mirror for visible architectural surfaces.

Yes. ULAMEX offers inspection certificates per EN 10204 Type 3.1 on request for all stainless steel products, confirming the chemical composition, mechanical properties and compliance of the specific delivery. As each certificate is batch-traceable and individually assigned per shipment, it must be specified when placing the order. This is standard practice for our B2B customers in construction, food processing and chemical industries.

Yes. We provide sawing and cut-to-length services for profiles, rods and pipes, as well as sheet cutting on request. Contact our export team with your dimensions and quantities for a tailored quotation including cutting and delivery.