304 stainless steel, falls into the 300 Series of stainless steel. It's the most widely used stainless steel in the world. It's also known as A2 stainless and 18/8 stainless steel due to being composed of 18% chromium and 8% nickel.
The key to 304 stainless steel's success in outdoor applications is the high nickel count. Stainless steel high in nickel will resist stress-corrosion cracking better than other stainless steel types. The higher nickel count means the steel is not magnetic, but will resist iron oxide. This makes 304 stainless steel popular in kitchen appliances such as refrigerators, and outdoor items such as natural gas grills.
The type 304 is resistant to corrosion and oxidation, making it perfect for commercial and underwater use. This grade stainless steel consists of 18% chromium, 8% nickel austenitic alloy offering the perfect combination of strength and durability.
Mentioned below are some of the points that show why Grade 304 is the stainless steel industry’s pillar.
- Grade 304 stainless steel has an excellent hot and cold forming process and performance, making it very trendy steel in the stainless steel industry.
- Stainless steel product suppliers favor Grade 304 because it is used in processing board, tape, wire, and tube types. These products are used in the manufacturing of cold heading and deep drawing forming parts.
- Stainless steel Grade 304 has excellent corrosion resistance. It has good resistance to inter granular corrosion of oxidizing acids. Most of the alkali solutions, such as organic acids and inorganic acids, have a good corrosion-resistant.
- Stainless steel Grade 304 can perform better in low temperatures. The strength, area reduction rate, and elongation at -180 degrees C are excellent compared to other stainless steel types.
Common applications for 304 stainless steel include:
- Storage tanks
- Kitchen equipment
- Automotive trim
- Decorative trim
- Household appliances
- Heat exchangers
- Fasteners
- Piping
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Making structures in the environment that would wear down carbon steel
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Commercial food processing equipment
The Grade 304 stainless steel is non-magnetic and therefore shows high resistance to corrosion and oxidation. They are popularly used in the chemical, textile, food, and petroleum industry due to their excellent properties. The good draw ability feature in the Grade 304 stainless steel makes it the perfect and most reliable steel used for high-duty performance. Besides, this grade of stainless steel is readily wieldable. Grade 304 stainless steel as one of the most suitable for both home and commercial requirements.