304 Stainless Steel

Stainless steel 304 and stainless steel 304L are also known as 1.4301 and 1.4307 respectively. Type 304 is the most versatile and widely used stainless steel. It is still sometimes referred to by its old name 18/8 which is derived from the nominal composition of type 304 being 18% chromium and 8% nickel. Type 304 stainless steel is an austenitic grade that can be severely deep drawn. This property has resulted in 304 being the dominant grade used in applications like sinks and saucepans. Type 304L is the low carbon version of 304. It is used in heavy gauge components for improved weldability. Some products such as plates and pipes may be available as "dual certified" material that meets the criteria for both 304 and 304L. 304H, a high carbon content variant, is also available for use at high temperatures. Properties given in this data sheet are typical for flat-rolled products covered by ASTM A240/A240M. It is reasonable to expect specifications in these standards to be similar but not necessarily identical to those given in this data sheet.

 

Q: What is the main chemical composition of 304 stainless steel?

A: It typically contains 18% chromium, 8% nickel, less than 0.08% carbon, and minor amounts of manganese, silicon, and phosphorus.

 

Q: What are the key properties of 304 stainless steel?

A: It has excellent corrosion resistance, good formability and weldability, and can maintain strength at moderate temperatures up to 870°C.

 

Q: What are the common applications of 304 stainless steel?

A: It is widely used in kitchenware, food processing equipment, architectural trim, chemical containers, and automotive components.

 

Q: How does 304 stainless steel differ from 316 stainless steel?

A: 316 contains molybdenum which enhances corrosion resistance, especially in chloride environments, while 304 is more cost-effective for general use.

 

Q: Is 304 stainless steel magnetic?

A: It is usually non-magnetic in the annealed state, but may become slightly magnetic after cold working due to phase transformation.