What is ASTM standard 304 stainless steel?

ASTM 304 stainless steel is a common austenitic grade of stainless steel known for its good corrosion resistance, excellent formability, and weldability. It contains approximately 18% chromium and 8% nickel and is widely used in applications like kitchen equipment, chemical processing, and architectural structures. While it resists many corrosive environments, it is susceptible to pitting and stress corrosion cracking in warm, chloride-rich conditions.