Grade 304 stainless steel is the most common form of stainless steel used around the world, due to its excellent corrosion resistance and value. It contains between 16 and 24 percent chromium and up to 35 percent nickel, as well as small amounts of carbon and manganese.
The most common form of 304 stainless steel is 18-8 (18/8) stainless steel, which contains 18 percent chromium and 8 percent nickel.
304 can withstand corrosion from most oxidizing acids. That durability makes 304 easy to sanitize, and therefore ideal for kitchen and food applications. It is also common in buildings, décor, and site furnishings.
It also has excellent low temperature properties and responds well to hardening by cold working.
Chemical Properties
| Grade | C | Mn | Si | P | S | Cr | Mo | Ni | N | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 304 | min. max. |
– 0.08 |
– 2.0 |
– 0.75 |
– 0.045 |
– 0.030 |
18.0 20.0 |
– | 8.0 10.5 |
– 0.10 |
Mechanical Properties
| Grade | Tensile Strength (MPa) min | Yield Strength 0.2% Proof (MPa) min | Elongation (% in 50 mm) min | Hardness | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Rockwell B (HR B) max | Brinell (HB) max | ||||
| 304 | 515 | 205 | 40 | 92 | 201 |
Common uses for 304 stainless steel:
- Storage tanks
- Fasteners and finishing hardware (screws, nuts, bolts, plates, handles)
- Pots and pans
- Residential sinks and sink parts
- Indoor architectural/decorative hardware (panels, sculptures, sconces)
- Equipment tubing
- Residential appliances
- Corrosion resistant electrical enclosures
- Food equipment (brewers, pasteurizers, mixers, etc.)
- Hypodermic needles
- Dyeing equipment
Kenworks Ventures Company Limited is the leading Stainless Steel supplier in the Kenyan market and across the borders. Call us today on 0722 706 416 to place your order.
