Stainless steel has emerged as one of the key bearers of contemporary infrastructure. It occupies its indispensable position in industries ranging from construction and transport to medicine and food processing. Among all the several grades of stainless steel, material 304 stainless steel is unique due to its superior qualities and universal usability. Its combination of strength, corrosion resistance, and value has won it innumerable industrial and household applications.
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The increased need for long-lasting and eco-friendly material has only increased the value of stainless steel in recent years. The mere presence of stainless steel SS has made it a necessity in meeting the changing needs of the modern world.
What Is SS 304?
SS 304 or 18/8 stainless steel is an austenitic stainless steel. "18/8" in its name is the name of the content, about 18% chromium and 8% nickel. Besides these major constituents, small quantities of carbon, manganese, silicon, phosphorus, and sulfur are present, all imparting their strength, corrosion resistance, and longevity to it.
This specific alloy is not only famous due to its physical performance but also due to its hygienic nature, which makes it suitable for being used in sanitary conditions such as food production and medical applications. It possesses resistance towards oxidation, can easily be sterilized, and retains strength upon exposure to high and low temperatures.
Chemical Compositions
The chemical composition of stainless steel SS 304 comprises:
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Element |
% Present |
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Chromium (Cr) |
18 - 20% |
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Nickel (Ni) |
8 - 10.5% |
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Carbon (C) |
0.08% max |
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Manganese (Mn) |
2% max |
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Silicon (Si) |
0.75% |
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Phosphorus (P) |
0.045% max |
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Sulphur (S) |
0.03% max |
Chromium improves corrosion resistance, and nickel improves oxidation resistance and heat stability. Carbon improves strength and hardness. Manganese is added to maintain the austenitic structure, silicon redsulfurxidation, and phosphorus and sulfur are kept low in order to maintain weldability.
The balance of these aspects makes 304 strong and shapeable, even for intricate parts and components. Such a balance has rendered it one of the most widely used types of stainless steel grades to apply in a variety of industries.
What Are the Physical and Mechanical Properties of SS 304?
- Density: ~8 g/cm³
- Melting Point: 1400–1450°C (2550–2650°F)
- Tensile Strength: 515 MPa (75000 psi)
- Yield Strength: 205 MPa (30000 psi)
- Elongation: 40% (in 50mm)
- Hardness: 70–90 HRB
- Electrical Conductivity: Low compared to metals such as copper
Such a combination of properties renders material 304 stainless steel highly desirable in several industries. From mechanical strength to temperature resistance, it possesses a balanced profile that finds appreciation in both routine and demanding environments.
Read more: A Comprehensive Guide to 316L Stainless Steel – The Differences, Properties, and Benefits
Properties of Stainless Steel 304
1. Resistance to Corrosion
304 stainless steel possesses excellent resistance in all types of environments, such as humidity and mild chemicals. Chromium creates a protective oxide layer that reduces oxidation and corrosion, perfect for marine and chemical processing environments. Its resistance even covers a couple of acidic solutions, perfect for equipment used within a lab.
2. Heat Resistance
SS 304 is also heat resistant up to 870°C (1600°F) without unwanted scaling and deformation and is therefore suitable for exhaust manifolds, heaters, and heat exchangers. This characteristic is very important in industry applications where materials should be in proper condition when under constant exposure to heat.
3. Cold working:
The alloy work hardens on cold forming. Intermediate annealing may become necessary during fabrication to recover ductility and avoid cracking or material failure. Cold working not only hardens but can also be used to produce certain structural shapes without reducing strength.
4. Hot Working
In hot working, the metal should be heated evenly to the temperature of 1149–1260°C (2100–2300°F). Rapid cooling after the shaping redevelops corrosion resistance. This keeps the stainless steel in its metallurgical form and desired characteristics after the working.
After the hot working is complete, it is crucial to rapidly cool the fabricated components. This ensures very high corrosion resistance.
5. Machinability
SS 304 is simple to machine using common techniques. Its high machinability reduces production time and cost and is thereby so well-liked in mass production. Tool life is insignificant, and the produced parts are of extremely good quality with an extremely good surface finish.
Applications of SS 304
- Architectural elements – Applied to building structures, handrails, and facades because of its aesthetic finish and resistance to wear and tear. Its clean finish and gloss provide an attractive appearance for contemporary designs.
- Food processing machinery – Resistant to corrosion and hygiene, ideal for application in cutlery, mixers, and tanks. It provides safety in environments where hygiene is a consideration.
- Chemical processing equipment – Resists chemicals of acidic and caustic nature without corroding, utilized in reactors and pipes. It's relied upon when failure would be disastrous.
- Pharmaceutical equipment – Resists contamination and is kept clean, best utilized in sterile conditions. It conforms to FDA and EU standards for medical-grade equipment.
- Heat exchangers – Resists changes in temperature without its efficiency being affected. It's commonly utilized in power generation plants and refineries.
- Appliances for the kitchen – Used in kitchen equipment, refrigerators, and sinks due to durability and easy cleanability. Commonly used in household and restaurant kitchen applications.
- Auto parts – Used in trim and exhausts due to corrosion-resistance and durability. Provides component life warranty against harsh weather and road use.
- Equipment for the oil and gas industry – Holds up well in situations of high stress and corrosion. Its durability and performance in adverse environments are unmatched.
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304 Stainless Steel vs 304L Stainless Steel: What are the Differences?
Both 304 and 304L stainless steel are austenitic stainless steels with identical base composition. Nevertheless, the main difference between them is their carbon content:
- 304 Stainless Steel has a maximum of 0.08% carbon.
- 304L Stainless Steel has a lower maximum carbon content of 0.03%.
Reduced carbon content in 304L reduces carbide precipitation upon welding, enhancing corrosion resistance particularly in the weld areas. This renders 304L better for severe environments in the chemical, pharmaceutical, and petrochemical industries where welding is crucial.
Apart from that, 304L is also more moldable and softer but also weaker mechanically compared to regular 304. When weldability and intergranular corrosion resistance are considerations, 304L is the optimum.
One should also point out that some industries demand dual-certified material that satisfies both 304 and 304L specifications. This allows manufacturers to use the material interchangeably without regard to compliance.
What Are the Differences Between Stainless Steel 202 vs 304?
Though both SS 202 and SS 304 belong to the austenitic group, there are extreme distinctions:
- Chemical Composition: SS 202 has higher manganese (7.5-10%) and lower nickel (4-6%) compared to SS 304. SS 304 is more stable with higher nickel and chromium.
- Resistance to Corrosion: SS 304 is more resistant to oxidation and corrosion, particularly in severe environments.
- Workability: SS 304 is weldable and formable more easily, hence more versatile.
Due to its even characteristics, stainless steel SS 304 is even a very durable and resilient alloy that can serve for multiple industrial applications. It is the preferred choice when one needs to balance performance as well as expenses.
Read More: Everything You Should Know About 17-4 PH Stainless Steel – How It’s Used in Industries
Buy Genuine High-Quality SS 304 from Sree Metaliks Limited!
If you’re exploring types of stainless steel grades for your next project or want more information about material 304 stainless steel, Sree Metaliks Limited can guide you. Known for superior quality and reliability, the company offers cost-effective solutions tailored to diverse industrial requirements. Whether you’re looking for large-scale supplies or project-specific consultations, Sree Metaliks is your trusted partner.
To check our inventory or inquire for a quote, visit the official website or contact our expert sales team.
For more information, please reach out to us at: Sales@sreemetaliks.com