X5CrNi18-10 Equivalent Material in India: Detailed Comparison and Applications
Stainless steel is the backbone of modern industry, offering strength, corrosion resistance, and versatility. One of the most recognized and widely used stainless steel grades worldwide is X5CrNi18-10. In India, this material is often referred to by its equivalent designation under local or international standards such as AISI 304, UNS S30400, or IS 6911 304.
This blog explains what X5CrNi18-10 means, its Indian equivalent materials, chemical and mechanical properties, and how it is used across various sectors.
What is X5CrNi18-10?
X5CrNi18-10 is the European standard name for an austenitic stainless steel grade defined in EN 10088-1. The designation “X5CrNi18-10” indicates:
X5 – about 0.05% carbon content
CrNi18-10 – approximately 18% chromium and 10% nickel content
This composition offers an ideal combination of corrosion resistance, formability, and strength. It belongs to the 18/8 stainless steel family, which is known for its adaptability in industrial and consumer environments.
Indian Equivalent of X5CrNi18-10
In India, AISI 304 is the closest equivalent to X5CrNi18-10.
This grade conforms to the IS 6911:2017 standard, which covers stainless steel plates, sheets, and strips for general purposes.
Below is a quick equivalence chart:
| Standard | Equivalent Grade |
|---|---|
| EN (Europe) | X5CrNi18-10 |
| AISI/ASTM (USA) | 304 |
| UNS (Unified Numbering System) | S30400 |
| JIS (Japan) | SUS 304 |
| IS (India) | IS 6911 304 |
| BS (UK) | 304S15 / 304S31 |
Thus, when sourcing stainless steel in India, you can confidently specify AISI 304 or IS 6911 304 as equivalents to X5CrNi18-10.
Chemical Composition
The composition of X5CrNi18-10 and its Indian equivalent AISI 304 is nearly identical.
| Element | Percentage (%) |
|---|---|
| Carbon (C) | ≤ 0.07 |
| Silicon (Si) | ≤ 1.0 |
| Manganese (Mn) | ≤ 2.0 |
| Phosphorus (P) | ≤ 0.045 |
| Sulfur (S) | ≤ 0.015 |
| Chromium (Cr) | 17.5 – 19.5 |
| Nickel (Ni) | 8.0 – 10.5 |
| Nitrogen (N) | ≤ 0.11 |
| Iron (Fe) | Balance |
This balanced chemistry ensures corrosion resistance in a wide range of environments, from mildly acidic to neutral and alkaline conditions.
Mechanical Properties
The mechanical strength of this grade ensures its suitability for various industrial operations, including forming, welding, and machining.
| Property | Value |
|---|---|
| Tensile Strength | 520 – 720 MPa |
| Yield Strength (0.2%) | ≥ 210 MPa |
| Elongation | ≥ 45% |
| Hardness (HB) | ≤ 215 |
| Density | 8.0 g/cm³ |
| Melting Point | 1400 – 1450°C |
These properties make the Indian equivalent of X5CrNi18-10 ideal for high-performance and durable applications.
Key Features and Benefits
Corrosion Resistance: Excellent resistance against moisture, air, and mild chemicals.
Weldability: Compatible with all standard welding methods, including TIG and MIG.
Formability: Can be easily deep drawn, spun, or formed into complex shapes.
Durability: Performs well under varying temperatures and pressures.
Aesthetic Appeal: Offers a smooth surface finish suitable for architectural applications.
Comparison Between X5CrNi18-10 and AISI 304
Although both materials are essentially identical in performance, minor differences in standards or testing methods may exist.
In practical applications, AISI 304 stainless steel fully meets the functional and quality expectations of X5CrNi18-10.
| Property | X5CrNi18-10 | AISI 304 (India) |
|---|---|---|
| Standard | EN 10088-1 | ASTM A240 / IS 6911 |
| Corrosion Resistance | Excellent | Excellent |
| Magnetic Property | Non-magnetic (annealed) | Non-magnetic (annealed) |
| Applications | General-purpose stainless steel | General-purpose stainless steel |
Therefore, Indian manufacturers can seamlessly replace imported X5CrNi18-10 with locally available 304 stainless steel, achieving the same level of performance and reliability.
Industrial Applications in India
The X5CrNi18-10 equivalent material in India (AISI 304) is widely used across multiple industries due to its adaptability and cost-efficiency.
1. Food Processing and Beverage Industry
Used in equipment like tanks, pipelines, and kitchen utensils due to its hygienic surface and resistance to food acids.
2. Chemical and Petrochemical Industry
Used for heat exchangers, pumps, and pipelines that handle non-corrosive fluids.
3. Architecture and Construction
Applied in cladding, railings, and decorative panels because of its smooth finish and longevity.
4. Automotive Sector
Utilized for exhaust systems, trims, and internal components that require heat and corrosion resistance.
5. Pharmaceutical and Medical Applications
Used in sterile environments, cleanrooms, and medical containers due to its non-reactive properties.
6. Power Generation and Energy Sector
Applied in heat recovery systems, condensers, and boiler tubes.
Indian Manufacturers of X5CrNi18-10 Equivalent Material
Several Indian companies manufacture and supply AISI 304 stainless steel as an equivalent to X5CrNi18-10, meeting global standards.
Nandini Steel – Offers 304 stainless steel sheets, coils, and plates with precise dimensional accuracy.
Jindal Stainless Ltd. – A leading stainless steel producer with advanced rolling technology.
Skytech Rolling Mill Pvt. Ltd. – Provides 304 stainless steel bars, rods, and flats.
Navrang Steel – Supplies polished and mirror-finished 304 sheets for decorative and industrial applications.
Dhanratan Steel Industries – Manufactures corrosion-resistant 304 plates for pressure and structural applications.
These Indian suppliers follow ASTM, EN, and ISO standards to ensure consistency and quality comparable to imported materials.
Advantages of Using Indian Equivalent Grades
Opting for Indian equivalents such as AISI 304 (IS 6911 304) offers several benefits:
Reduced Cost: Lower manufacturing and transportation costs compared to imports.
Local Availability: Readily available stock in different sizes and finishes.
Custom Manufacturing: Ability to order customized thickness, surface finish, and length.
Quality Standards: Produced in compliance with international norms.
Sustainability: Local production minimizes environmental footprint associated with imports.
Conclusion
The X5CrNi18-10 stainless steel grade has long been a standard material for industries that demand corrosion resistance, strength, and workability. In India, its direct equivalent — AISI 304 / IS 6911 304 — provides the same reliability, performance, and adaptability across multiple applications.
Indian manufacturers have proven expertise in producing this grade in various product forms such as sheets, plates, tubes, and bars. As India continues to strengthen its position as a stainless steel hub, sourcing X5CrNi18-10 equivalent material locally ensures quality, cost efficiency, and timely supply for every project.