stainless 304 is one of the most common types of stainless steel, and it’s also one of the most versatile. It’s a member of the austenitic family of metals and contains both chromium and nickel. This alloy’s high nickel content makes it a popular choice for a variety of applications.
The chemical composition of a stainless steel is the key to selecting the right type for your project. stainless 304 is an austenitic stainless steel that features 8 to 10.5% nickel and 18-20% chromium. It has other elements – including carbon, manganese, and silicon – which contribute to its corrosion resistance.
It’s a mildly weldable and formable steel that is widely used in many industrial applications. The high nickel and chromium content provides great corrosion protection in various environments, and it is easy to clean and maintain.
There are a number of properties that you should consider when choosing stainless steel, so here is a brief rundown of them:
Grade 304 has a tensile strength of 520-720 MPa and a yield strength of 540-750 MPa. This allows 304 to withstand repeated strains and bending without breaking.
In addition to its tensile strength, 304 has good compression and shear strength as well. This alloy is also resistant to chloride and saline, so it’s ideal for outdoor furnishings like rails and bollards that may be exposed to corrosive fluids.
While 304 is a durable and cost-effective grade, it doesn’t have the same corrosion resistance as 316. 316 has a higher nickel content, which increases its resistance to saline and chloride. This is especially useful in marine environments, where saline and chloride exposure can be a serious problem.
