What is 304 Stainless Steel (UNS S30400)?

304 stainless steel is the most versatile and widely used grade, and it is used dominantly in deep drawn manufacturing. Type 304L does not require annealing after welding. Grade 304H has higher carbon so is useful at higher temperatures. Grade 304 has excellent toughness across all temperatures.

The following datasheet gives an overview of Grade 304 stainless steel.


Chemical Composition


ElementContent(%)
Chromium (Cr)18 – 20
Nickel (Ni)8 – 12
Manganese (Mn)2
Silicon (Si)0.75
Nitrogen (N)0.0 – 0.1
Carbon (C)0.03 – 0.1
Phosphorus (P)0.045
Sulfur (S)0.03


Physical Properties


PropertiesMetricImperial
Density8000 kg/cm³lb./in³


Mechanical Properties


PropertiesMetricImperial
Tensile Strength485-515 MPa70 ksi
Yield Strength170 – 205MPa25 ksi
Elastic Modulus193 GPa24500 ksi
Poisson’s Ratio
Elongation at Break
Hardness, Rockwell B (converted from Brinell)92
Hardness, Brinell201



Thermal Properties



PropertiesMetricImperial
Thermal Expansion17.2 – 18.4 µm/m°-Cµin/in°F
Thermal Conductivity (100°C – 500°C)16.2 – 21.5W/mKBTU in/hr.ft².°F


Fabrication and Heat Treatment


Machinability


Grade 304 can be machined easily.


Welding


304 stainless steel can be welded using all standard fusion methods. No filler metals are needed, but they can be used. Post-welding annealing is recommended for maximum corrosion resistance.


Heat Treatment


Solution treat to anneal. Heat to 1010-1120 °C . Cool rapidly. Grade 304 cannot be hardened by thermal treatment.


Applications


Grade 304 stainless steel works best in the following applications:


  • Food-grade equipment (mostly beer, milk, and wine)
  • Kitchen equipment and appliances
  • Architectural paneling, railings & trim
  • Chemical containers, including for transport
  • Heat Exchangers
  • Woven or welded screens for mining, quarrying & water filtration
  • Threaded fasteners
  • Springs


See more..

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