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Stainless Steel Alloy 304 | Product Properties, Composition & Machinability
Stainless steel 304, also known as UNS S30400, is one of the most widely used and versatile austenitic stainless steel grades. Composed of 18% chromium and 8% nickel, with a small amount of carbon, this alloy offers excellent corrosion resistance in various environments, making it suitable for a wide range of applications. Stainless steel 304 is favored in the food and beverage industry, pharmaceuticals, kitchenware, and architectural applications due to its hygienic and aesthetically pleasing properties. Its high strength and durability, coupled with ease of fabrication, make it a popular choice for structural components and equipment. Stainless steel 304's robust resistance to oxidation and scaling at high temperatures further adds to its appeal in industrial settings. Overall, stainless steel 304 remains a top-grade selection for numerous industries and purposes due to its corrosion resistance, versatility, and reliability.
Product Properties
Chemical
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Alloying Elements
Chromium: Most important element of stainless steel. An addition of 10% chromium will form an oxide film (passive surface film) which renders the steel corrosion resistant. Chromium also increases resistance to scaling.
Nickel: Second most important element. It increases ductility, corrosion resistance, scaling resistance, and high-temperature strength.
Silicon: Primarily increases resistance to scaling.
Manganese: Improves hot-working properties.
Molybdenum: Increases corrosion and high-temperature strength.
Sulfur-Phosphorus-Selenium: Increases machinability.
Titanium or Columbium-Tantalum: Stabilizes carbon and prevents chromium-carbide precipitation and subsequent intergranular corrosion.
Mechanical
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Physical
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Fabrication
Machinability ratings must be recognized as approximate values. They are a reasonable guide to relative tool life and power required for cutting. Variables of speed, cutting oil, feed, and depth of cut will significantly affect these ratios.
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*Based on Bessemer Screw Stock No. B1112
Machinability ratings must be recognized as approximate values. They are a reasonable guide to relative tool life and power required for cutting. Variables of speed, cutting oil, feed, and depth of cut will significantly affect these ratios.
Disclaimer: The data listed here are recommended starting points. Higher speeds and feeds may be obtainable based on the working environment. Keep in mind that speeds and feeds should always be adjusted in small steps. When using carbide tools; surface speed can be increased 2 to 3 times over the suggested values; feeds can be increased between 50 and 100%.
Characteristics
Extra low carbon content to avoid harmful carbide precipitation in welding applications. High corrosion resistance and non-magnetic.
Typical Uses
Structural footings, supports, and ornamental work.
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