304 Stainless Steel 1.4301
As a trusted 304 stainless steel supplier and manufacturer, Huaxiao-Alloy has dedicated decades to perfecting the production and supply of high-performance stainless steel alloys. In this guide, we delve into the critical aspects of 304 stainless steel, including its applications, supply forms, chemical composition, mechanical and physical properties, and answers to industry FAQs.
Our Supply Forms & Dimensions
As a premier 304 stainless steel manufacturer, Huaxiao-Alloy offers the alloy in multiple forms:
Form | Dimensions | Standards |
---|---|---|
Sheets/Plates | Thickness: 0.1mm–100mm; Width: 1000–2000mm | ASTM A240, AISI 304 |
Coils | Thickness: 0.3–6mm; Width: 10–1500mm | EN 1.4301, JIS SUS304 |
Bars/Rods | Diameter: 5mm–500mm; Length: 1–6m | ASTM A276, ASTM A479 |
Tubes/Pipes | OD: 6–1200mm; Wall Thickness: 0.5–50mm | ASTM A312, ASTM A269 |
Wire | Diameter: 0.1–10mm | ASTM A580, DIN 17440 |
Custom sizes and tolerances available upon request.
What is 304 Stainless Steel?
304 stainless steel (UNS S30400) is the most widely used austenitic stainless steel alloy. Known for its exceptional corrosion resistance, formability, and weldability, it contains 18% chromium and 8% nickel, earning it the nickname “18/8 stainless steel.” Huaxiao-Alloy specializes in supplying 304 stainless steel in diverse forms, tailored to meet industrial demands.
Applications of 304 Stainless Steel
Industrial & Commercial Uses
- Food Processing: Ideal for tanks, piping, and equipment due to its hygienic surface and resistance to organic acids.
- Architecture: Used in cladding, handrails, and structural components for its aesthetic appeal and durability.
- Medical Devices: Non-reactive nature makes it suitable for surgical instruments and implants.
- Chemical Industry: Resists corrosion from acidic and alkaline environments.
- Automotive: Exhaust systems, grilles, and trim components.
Why Choose Huaxiao-Alloy as Your 304 Stainless Steel Supplier?
- ISO 9001-certified manufacturing.
- Customized dimensions and finishes.
- Global logistics support.
Chemical Composition of 304 stainless steel
304 stainless steel’s corrosion resistance stems from its balanced chemistry:
Element | Content (%) | Role |
---|---|---|
Chromium (Cr) | 18.0–20.0 | Enhances oxidation resistance. |
Nickel (Ni) | 8.0–10.5 | Stabilizes austenitic structure. |
Carbon (C) | ≤0.08 | Reduces carbide precipitation. |
Manganese (Mn) | ≤2.0 | Improves strength and workability. |
Silicon (Si) | ≤1.0 | Deoxidizer during melting. |
Phosphorus (P) | ≤0.045 | Controls brittleness. |
Sulfur (S) | ≤0.03 | Enhances machinability. |
Iron (Fe) | Balance | Base metal. |
Complies with ASTM A240, AISI 304, and EN 1.4301 standards.
Mechanical Properties of 304 stainless steel
304 stainless steel offers reliable performance under stress:
Property | Value |
---|---|
Tensile Strength | 515–720 MPa |
Yield Strength (0.2% offset) | 205 MPa (min) |
Elongation (50mm gauge) | 40% (min) |
Hardness (Brinell) | 201 HB (max) |
Modulus of Elasticity | 193 GPa |
Note: Properties vary with heat treatment (e.g., annealing at 1010–1120°C).
Physical Properties of 304 stainless steel
Property | Value |
---|---|
Density | 8,000 kg/m³ |
Melting Point | 1400–1450°C |
Thermal Conductivity | 16.2 W/m·K (at 100°C) |
Electrical Resistivity | 0.72 μΩ·m |
Magnetic Permeability | <1.02 (Annealed, non-magnetic) |
Why Partner with Huaxiao-Alloy?
- 40+ Years of Expertise: Precision in metallurgy and fabrication.
- End-to-End Solutions: From raw material sourcing to finished products.
- Competitive Pricing: Optimized production reduces costs without compromising quality.
- Sustainability: Eco-friendly processes aligned with global standards.
316 contains 2–3% molybdenum, enhancing corrosion resistance in chloride environments. 304 is more cost-effective for general-purpose use.
It performs well up to 870°C intermittently and 925°C continuously. Prolonged exposure above 425°C may cause carbide precipitation.
Annealed 304 is non-magnetic. Cold working may induce slight magnetism.
Regular cleaning, avoiding chloride-rich environments, and passivation treatments enhance longevity.
Yes, including Mill Test Reports (MTRs), ISO 9001, and material traceability documents.