Type 304 Stainless Steel

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Elements (Max.) C Mn P S Si Cr Ni .08 2.00 .045 .03 .75 18/20 8/10.5

TYPE 304 is the basic chromium-nickel stainless steel. It combines excellent mechanical properties with excellent resistance to many corrosive agents encountered in domestic and industrial use. It is non-magnetic in the annealed condition and not hardened by heat treatment. Both hardness and tensile strength can be increased by cold working. The analysis of Type 304 is similar to that of Type 302, except that Type 304 is modified by lowered carbon content. This provides good resistance to corrosion in welded construction where subsequent heat treatment is not practicable.

Applications: Used where corrosion resistance and good mechanical properties are primary requirements. These grades are widely accepted in such industries as dairy, beverage and other food products where the highest degree of sanitation and cleanliness is of prime importance. Parts for handling acetic, nitric and citric acids, organic and inorganic chemicals, dyestuffs, crude and refined oils, etc., are fabricated from this material. Because of its lack of magnetism it is highly desirable for instruments. It is also widely used for architectural trim. Type 304, as noted above, finds - particular use in applications requiring welding.

Corrosion Resistance: Maximum corrosion resistance is obtained in the annealed condition. Intergranular corrosion may occur when material is heated within or cooled through the range of 800 to 1500 Deg. F.

Resistance To Scaling: Excellent scale resistance at temperatures up to 1600 Deg. F in continuous service. Chromium-nickel grades have a high coefficient of expansion, which should be considered in designing.

Machinabililty: Type 304 has a machinability rating of approximately 45%, with B-1112 rated 100%. Surface cutting speed on automatic screw machines is approximately 75 feet per minute.

Weldability: Easily welded by all the commercial processes except forge or hammer welding. The resulting weld has good toughness and ductility. Annealing is recommended after welding to maintain maximum corrosion resistance.

Forming: These grades have very good drawing and stamping properties.

Annealing: Annealing range is between 1850 and 2050 Deg. F Cool rapidly Water should be used for heavier sections, air for lighter sections. The stress relieving range is between 400 and 750 Deg. F. Type 304 L (ELC) Stainless Steel

Elements (Max.) C Mn P S Si Cr Ni .03 2.00 .045 .03 .75 18/20 8/12

Type 304 L (or ELC) is a very low carbon chromium nickel steel with corrosion resistance similar to T 304, but with superior resistance to intergranular corrosion following welding or stress relieving. The range of carbon content is controlled to the level of .03 maximum. This limits the formation of harmful carbides to a great extent. Post-weld annealing isn't necessary in most cases.

Applications: Any fabricating applications where annealing after welding is impractical, or where the specifications are very exact regarding intergranular corrosion, otherwise used in same types of equipment as 304.

Corrosion Resistance: Highly resistant to all types of rusting, and is immune to most foods and organic chemicals.

Scaling Resistance: Excellent up to 1600 Deg. F in continuous service Could be used in application involving intermittent heating and cooling up to 1450 Deg. F.

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