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What does 304 mean in steel? Is 304 stainless steel good quality?

Release time：2024-07-23 20:51:31 Source：DuHao

304 stainless steel, also known as 18/8 stainless steel, is one of the most widely used and versatile forms of stainless steel. It is named for its composition, which includes 18% chromium and 8% nickel, contributing to its exceptional corrosion resistance, durability, and aesthetic appeal. This alloy has a density of 7.93 g/cm³ and can withstand high temperatures up to 800℃, making it ideal for a range of applications across various industries.

Definition and Characteristics of 304 Stainless Steel

Key characteristics of 304 stainless steel include its high tensile strength, with values ranging from 515 to 1035 MPa, and excellent elongation properties of 40% or more, indicating its ability to be stretched without breaking. Additionally, it boasts a melting point between 1398℃ and 1454℃, a specific heat capacity of 0.50 KJ·kg-1K-1, and thermal conductivity values that vary with temperature, ensuring efficient heat transfer.

The austenitic structure of 304 stainless steel, characterized by the presence of nickel, enhances its corrosion resistance and makes it easy to sanitize, which is particularly beneficial for kitchen and food applications. Its resistance to oxidation and a wide range of environmental conditions ensures longevity and reliability, making it a popular choice in the industrial, furniture, food, and medical sectors.

Quality Grade and Uses of 304 Stainless Steel

The quality of 304 stainless steel varies based on its intended use, with stricter content specifications required for food-grade applications compared to general industrial uses. The international definition of 304 stainless steel specifies that it must contain 18%-20% chromium and 8%-10% nickel. However, food-grade 304 stainless steel must meet even more stringent criteria, including controlled fluctuations within these ranges and limitations on the content of various heavy metals to ensure safety for food contact.

Commonly, 304 stainless steel is identified through various standards, such as ASTM, JIS, and GB/T, each with specific chemical composition requirements. For example, the ASTM A276 standard for stainless steel bars and shapes mandates a maximum carbon content of 0.08%, manganese up to 2.00%, and chromium content between 18.0%-20.0%, with nickel ranging from 8.0%-11.0%. Similarly, the JIS G4303 standard for stainless steel bars specifies comparable requirements, ensuring consistency and quality across different forms of 304 stainless steel.

304 stainless steel is a highly adaptable and reliable material, prized for its excellent corrosion resistance, mechanical properties, and suitability for a wide range of applications. Whether in the kitchen, medical field, or industrial settings, the quality and performance of 304 stainless steel make it an indispensable material in modern manufacturing and construction.

Limitations of 304 Stainless Steel

It can be susceptible to pitting and crevice corrosion in chloride-rich environments (such as coastal areas or swimming pools).

It might not be the best choice for applications involving prolonged exposure to very high temperatures due to the risk of carbide precipitation, which can decrease corrosion resistance.

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