304 Stainless Steel Hot Working Processes

1. What is the optimal hot working temperature for 304? 1100-1250°C; hot working below 925°C should be avoided.

2. Can 304 be hot-forged? Yes, hot forging is suitable for producing large components like valves, flanges, and fittings.

3. How to cool 304 after hot working? Air cooling is sufficient for most applications; water quenching can be used for critical components to restore austenitic structure.

Does hot working affect 304's corrosion resistance? Properly hot-worked and annealed 304 retains full corrosion resistance.

5. What is hot shortness in 304? Brittleness caused by sulfur segregation at grain boundaries, which occurs when hot working below 925°C.