ASTM A484/A484M (USA) and GB/T 1220 (China) classify stainless round bars with different naming conventions but overlapping grades:
Grade designations: ASTM uses SAE numbers (e.g., 304, 316), while GB/T 1220 uses chemical-based codes (06Cr19Ni10 for 304, 06Cr17Ni12Mo2 for 316).
Alloy ranges: Both specify 18–20% Cr for 304, but ASTM allows wider Ni ranges (8–10.5% vs. 8–11% in GB/T 1220) for 304.
Specialized grades: ASTM includes more high-temperature grades (e.g., 310S), while GB/T 1220 emphasizes corrosion-resistant grades for industrial use.
Traceability: ASTM requires "heat number" tracking, while GB/T 1220 mandates "ladle number" documentation-both ensuring full material traceability.
Despite differences, the grades are functionally equivalent, allowing for cross-border use with proper certification.