{"id":2259,"date":"2026-02-27T09:03:12","date_gmt":"2026-02-27T09:03:12","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/ceshi.baoxuanmetal.com\/?page_id=2259"},"modified":"2026-09-02T09:17:15","modified_gmt":"2026-09-02T09:17:15","slug":"type-304-austenitic-stainless-steel-18-8","status":"publish","type":"page","link":"https:\/\/ceshi.baoxuanmetal.com\/sr-mfg-metal-materials-library\/type-304-austenitic-stainless-steel-18-8\/","title":{"rendered":"Type 304 Austenitic Stainless Steel (18\/8)"},"content":{"rendered":"<p><div class=\"fusion-fullwidth fullwidth-box fusion-builder-row-1 fusion-flex-container has-pattern-background has-mask-background fusion-parallax-none nonhundred-percent-fullwidth non-hundred-percent-height-scrolling fusion-custom-z-index\" style=\"--awb-border-radius-top-left:0px;--awb-border-radius-top-right:0px;--awb-border-radius-bottom-right:0px;--awb-border-radius-bottom-left:0px;--awb-z-index:1;--awb-padding-top:80px;--awb-padding-bottom:44px;--awb-padding-top-medium:72px;--awb-margin-top:-53px;--awb-background-image:url(&quot;https:\/\/ceshi.baoxuanmetal.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/Type-304-AusteniticStainless-Steel-18-8.webp&quot;);--awb-background-size:cover;--awb-flex-wrap:wrap;\" ><div class=\"fusion-builder-row fusion-row fusion-flex-align-items-flex-start fusion-flex-justify-content-center fusion-flex-content-wrap\" style=\"max-width:1248px;margin-left: calc(-4% \/ 2 );margin-right: calc(-4% \/ 2 );\"><div class=\"fusion-layout-column fusion_builder_column fusion-builder-column-0 fusion_builder_column_3_5 3_5 fusion-flex-column\" style=\"--awb-bg-size:cover;--awb-width-large:60%;--awb-margin-top-large:0px;--awb-spacing-right-large:3.2%;--awb-margin-bottom-large:20px;--awb-spacing-left-large:3.2%;--awb-width-medium:60%;--awb-order-medium:0;--awb-spacing-right-medium:3.2%;--awb-spacing-left-medium:3.2%;--awb-width-small:100%;--awb-order-small:0;--awb-spacing-right-small:1.92%;--awb-spacing-left-small:1.92%;\"><div class=\"fusion-column-wrapper fusion-column-has-shadow fusion-flex-justify-content-flex-start fusion-content-layout-column\"><nav class=\"fusion-breadcrumbs fusion-breadcrumbs-1\" style=\"--awb-margin-top:20px;--awb-alignment:left;--awb-breadcrumb-sep:&#039;&gt;&#039;;text-align:left;\" aria-label=\"Breadcrumb\"><ol class=\"awb-breadcrumb-list\"><li class=\"fusion-breadcrumb-item awb-breadcrumb-sep awb-home\" ><a href=\"https:\/\/ceshi.baoxuanmetal.com\" class=\"fusion-breadcrumb-link\"><span >Home<\/span><\/a><\/li><\/ol><\/nav><div class=\"fusion-title title fusion-title-1 fusion-sep-none fusion-title-text fusion-title-size-one\" style=\"--awb-text-color:#040d16;--awb-font-size:54px;\"><h1 class=\"fusion-title-heading title-heading-left\" style=\"font-family:&quot;Plus Jakarta Sans&quot;;font-style:normal;font-weight:700;margin:0;letter-spacing:-0.02em;text-transform:var(--awb-typography1-text-transform);font-size:1em;line-height:1.12em;\">Type 304 Austenitic Stainless Steel (18\/8)<\/h1><\/div><div class=\"fusion-title title fusion-title-2 fusion-sep-none fusion-title-text fusion-title-size-div\" style=\"--awb-text-color:#4f5c6c;--awb-margin-bottom:32px;--awb-margin-bottom-small:32px;--awb-font-size:15px;\"><div class=\"fusion-title-heading title-heading-left title-heading-tag\" style=\"font-family:&quot;Plus Jakarta Sans&quot;;font-style:normal;font-weight:500;margin:0;letter-spacing:0px;text-transform:capitalize;font-size:1em;line-height:1.4em;\">This article covers the core properties, typical applications, and material selection considerations of Type 304 austenitic stainless steel. It also explains the material\u2019s key advantages and practical limitations, with the goal of helping you make more informed material decisions.<\/div><\/div><style>\n\/* =========================================================\n   SR MFG - 304 Stainless Steel Hero Highlights\n========================================================= *\/\n\n.srmfg-304-highlights {\n    width: 100%;\n    max-width: 650px;\n\n    display: grid;\n    grid-template-columns: repeat(3, minmax(0, 1fr));\n\n    box-sizing: border-box;\n}\n\n\n\/* =========================================================\n   Single Item\n========================================================= *\/\n\n.srmfg-304-highlight {\n    position: relative;\n\n    min-width: 0;\n\n    padding: 0 24px;\n\n    display: flex;\n    align-items: flex-start;\n\n    gap: 11px;\n\n    box-sizing: border-box;\n}\n\n\n\/* First item *\/\n.srmfg-304-highlight:first-child {\n    padding-left: 0;\n}\n\n\n\/* Last item *\/\n.srmfg-304-highlight:last-child {\n    padding-right: 0;\n}\n\n\n\/* Vertical separator *\/\n.srmfg-304-highlight:not(:last-child)::after {\n    content: \"\";\n\n    position: absolute;\n\n    right: 0;\n    top: 3px;\n    bottom: 3px;\n\n    width: 1px;\n\n    background: #d9e0e7;\n}\n\n\n\/* =========================================================\n   Icon\n========================================================= *\/\n\n.srmfg-304-icon {\n    width: 35px;\n    height: 35px;\n    min-width: 35px;\n\n    margin-top: 1px;\n\n    display: flex;\n    align-items: center;\n    justify-content: center;\n\n    color: #ff6425;\n}\n\n\n.srmfg-304-icon svg {\n    width: 100%;\n    height: 100%;\n\n    display: block;\n}\n\n\n\/* =========================================================\n   Content\n========================================================= *\/\n\n.srmfg-304-content {\n    min-width: 0;\n}\n\n\n.srmfg-304-title {\n    margin: 0;\n\n    color: #102b50;\n\n    font-size: 12px;\n    font-weight: 700;\n    line-height: 1.32;\n}\n\n\n\/* =========================================================\n   Tablet\n========================================================= *\/\n\n@media (max-width: 900px) {\n\n    .srmfg-304-highlight {\n        padding-left: 16px;\n        padding-right: 16px;\n\n        gap: 9px;\n    }\n\n\n    .srmfg-304-icon {\n        width: 31px;\n        height: 31px;\n        min-width: 31px;\n    }\n\n\n    .srmfg-304-title {\n        font-size: 11.5px;\n    }\n\n}\n\n\n\/* =========================================================\n   Mobile\n========================================================= *\/\n\n@media (max-width: 600px) {\n\n    .srmfg-304-highlights {\n        grid-template-columns: 1fr;\n\n        max-width: 100%;\n    }\n\n\n    .srmfg-304-highlight {\n        padding: 14px 0;\n\n        gap: 12px;\n    }\n\n\n    .srmfg-304-highlight:first-child {\n        padding-top: 0;\n    }\n\n\n    .srmfg-304-highlight:last-child {\n        padding-bottom: 0;\n    }\n\n\n    \/* Mobile: vertical line becomes horizontal *\/\n    .srmfg-304-highlight:not(:last-child)::after {\n        top: auto;\n        left: 0;\n        right: 0;\n        bottom: 0;\n\n        width: 100%;\n        height: 1px;\n    }\n\n\n    .srmfg-304-title {\n        font-size: 12.5px;\n    }\n\n}\n<\/style>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"srmfg-304-highlights\">\n\n\n    <!-- =====================================================\n         01 Excellent Corrosion Resistance\n    ====================================================== -->\n\n    <div class=\"srmfg-304-highlight\">\n\n        <div class=\"srmfg-304-icon\">\n\n            <svg viewBox=\"0 0 48 48\" aria-hidden=\"true\">\n\n                <!-- Shield -->\n                <path\n                    d=\"M24 5L38 11V22C38 31 32.5 38 24 43C15.5 38 10 31 10 22V11L24 5Z\"\n                    fill=\"none\"\n                    stroke=\"currentColor\"\n                    stroke-width=\"2\"\n                    stroke-linejoin=\"round\"\n                \/>\n\n                <!-- Check -->\n                <path\n                    d=\"M18 23L22 27L30 18\"\n                    fill=\"none\"\n                    stroke=\"currentColor\"\n                    stroke-width=\"2.2\"\n                    stroke-linecap=\"round\"\n                    stroke-linejoin=\"round\"\n                \/>\n\n            <\/svg>\n\n        <\/div>\n\n\n        <div class=\"srmfg-304-content\">\n\n            <div class=\"srmfg-304-title\">\n                Excellent Corrosion<br>\n                Resistance\n            <\/div>\n\n        <\/div>\n\n    <\/div>\n\n\n\n    <!-- =====================================================\n         02 Excellent Formability & Weldability\n    ====================================================== -->\n\n    <div class=\"srmfg-304-highlight\">\n\n        <div class=\"srmfg-304-icon\">\n\n            <svg viewBox=\"0 0 48 48\" aria-hidden=\"true\">\n\n                <!-- Forming \/ bending shape -->\n                <path\n                    d=\"M12 9V24C12 31 17 36 24 36C31 36 36 31 36 24V9\"\n                    fill=\"none\"\n                    stroke=\"currentColor\"\n                    stroke-width=\"2\"\n                    stroke-linecap=\"round\"\n                \/>\n\n                <!-- left forming tool -->\n                <path\n                    d=\"M8 9H16V20H12\"\n                    fill=\"none\"\n                    stroke=\"currentColor\"\n                    stroke-width=\"2\"\n                    stroke-linejoin=\"round\"\n                \/>\n\n                <!-- right forming tool -->\n                <path\n                    d=\"M32 9H40V20H36\"\n                    fill=\"none\"\n                    stroke=\"currentColor\"\n                    stroke-width=\"2\"\n                    stroke-linejoin=\"round\"\n                \/>\n\n                <!-- Weld mark -->\n                <path\n                    d=\"M20 27L22 25L24 27L26 25L28 27\"\n                    fill=\"none\"\n                    stroke=\"currentColor\"\n                    stroke-width=\"2\"\n                    stroke-linecap=\"round\"\n                    stroke-linejoin=\"round\"\n                \/>\n\n            <\/svg>\n\n        <\/div>\n\n\n        <div class=\"srmfg-304-content\">\n\n            <div class=\"srmfg-304-title\">\n                Excellent Formability &<br>\n                Weldability\n            <\/div>\n\n        <\/div>\n\n    <\/div>\n\n\n\n    <!-- =====================================================\n         03 Premium Surface Quality\n    ====================================================== -->\n\n    <div class=\"srmfg-304-highlight\">\n\n        <div class=\"srmfg-304-icon\">\n\n            <svg viewBox=\"0 0 48 48\" aria-hidden=\"true\">\n\n                <!-- Large sparkle -->\n                <path\n                    d=\"M24 5\n                       C24 14 20 18 11 18\n                       C20 18 24 22 24 31\n                       C24 22 28 18 37 18\n                       C28 18 24 14 24 5Z\"\n                    fill=\"none\"\n                    stroke=\"currentColor\"\n                    stroke-width=\"2\"\n                    stroke-linejoin=\"round\"\n                \/>\n\n                <!-- Small sparkle -->\n                <path\n                    d=\"M36 27\n                       C36 31 34 33 30 33\n                       C34 33 36 35 36 39\n                       C36 35 38 33 42 33\n                       C38 33 36 31 36 27Z\"\n                    fill=\"none\"\n                    stroke=\"currentColor\"\n                    stroke-width=\"1.8\"\n                    stroke-linejoin=\"round\"\n                \/>\n\n                <!-- Small sparkle -->\n                <path\n                    d=\"M11 28\n                       C11 31 9.5 32.5 6.5 32.5\n                       C9.5 32.5 11 34 11 37\n                       C11 34 12.5 32.5 15.5 32.5\n                       C12.5 32.5 11 31 11 28Z\"\n                    fill=\"none\"\n                    stroke=\"currentColor\"\n                    stroke-width=\"1.6\"\n                    stroke-linejoin=\"round\"\n                \/>\n\n            <\/svg>\n\n        <\/div>\n\n\n        <div class=\"srmfg-304-content\">\n\n            <div class=\"srmfg-304-title\">\n                Premium Surface<br>\n                Quality\n            <\/div>\n\n        <\/div>\n\n    <\/div>\n\n\n<\/div><\/div><\/div><div class=\"fusion-layout-column fusion_builder_column fusion-builder-column-1 fusion_builder_column_2_5 2_5 fusion-flex-column\" style=\"--awb-bg-size:cover;--awb-width-large:40%;--awb-margin-top-large:0px;--awb-spacing-right-large:4.8%;--awb-margin-bottom-large:20px;--awb-spacing-left-large:4.8%;--awb-width-medium:40%;--awb-order-medium:0;--awb-spacing-right-medium:4.8%;--awb-spacing-left-medium:4.8%;--awb-width-small:100%;--awb-order-small:0;--awb-spacing-right-small:1.92%;--awb-spacing-left-small:1.92%;\"><div class=\"fusion-column-wrapper fusion-column-has-shadow fusion-flex-justify-content-flex-start fusion-content-layout-column\"><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><div class=\"fusion-fullwidth fullwidth-box fusion-builder-row-2 fusion-flex-container has-pattern-background has-mask-background nonhundred-percent-fullwidth non-hundred-percent-height-scrolling fusion-sticky-container\" style=\"--awb-border-radius-top-left:0px;--awb-border-radius-top-right:0px;--awb-border-radius-bottom-right:0px;--awb-border-radius-bottom-left:0px;--awb-background-color:#f5f7f9;--awb-flex-wrap:wrap;\" data-transition-offset=\"0\" data-scroll-offset=\"0\" data-sticky-medium-visibility=\"1\" data-sticky-large-visibility=\"1\" ><div class=\"fusion-builder-row fusion-row fusion-flex-align-items-flex-start fusion-flex-content-wrap\" style=\"max-width:1248px;margin-left: calc(-4% \/ 2 );margin-right: calc(-4% \/ 2 );\"><div class=\"fusion-layout-column fusion_builder_column fusion-builder-column-2 fusion_builder_column_1_1 1_1 fusion-flex-column\" style=\"--awb-bg-size:cover;--awb-width-large:100%;--awb-margin-top-large:0px;--awb-spacing-right-large:1.92%;--awb-margin-bottom-large:20px;--awb-spacing-left-large:1.92%;--awb-width-medium:100%;--awb-order-medium:0;--awb-spacing-right-medium:1.92%;--awb-spacing-left-medium:1.92%;--awb-width-small:100%;--awb-order-small:0;--awb-spacing-right-small:1.92%;--awb-spacing-left-small:1.92%;\"><div class=\"fusion-column-wrapper fusion-column-has-shadow fusion-flex-justify-content-flex-start fusion-content-layout-column\"><style>\n\/* =========================================================\n   SR MFG - Type 304 Stainless Steel Page Navigation\n   HTML + CSS ONLY\n========================================================= *\/\n\nhtml {\n    scroll-behavior: smooth;\n}\n\n.srmfg-304-toc {\n    --navy: #0b3157;\n    --navy-dark: #082746;\n    --orange: #ff6425;\n    --text: #17314f;\n    --muted: #7b8796;\n    --border: #e1e7ed;\n\n    width: 100%;\n    box-sizing: border-box;\n\n    padding: 9px 14px;\n\n    background: #ffffff;\n\n    border: 1px solid #e3e9ef;\n    border-radius: 11px;\n\n    box-shadow:\n        0 8px 24px rgba(13,49,88,.07),\n        0 1px 3px rgba(13,49,88,.03);\n}\n\n\n\/* =========================================================\n   Layout\n========================================================= *\/\n\n.srmfg-304-toc-inner {\n    width: 100%;\n    min-width: 0;\n\n    display: flex;\n    align-items: center;\n}\n\n\n\/* =========================================================\n   Left Label\n========================================================= *\/\n\n.srmfg-304-toc-label {\n    flex: 0 0 150px;\n\n    min-height: 56px;\n\n    padding-right: 20px;\n    margin-right: 8px;\n\n    display: flex;\n    align-items: center;\n\n    gap: 12px;\n\n    box-sizing: border-box;\n\n    border-right: 1px solid var(--border);\n}\n\n\n.srmfg-304-toc-icon {\n    width: 34px;\n    height: 34px;\n    min-width: 34px;\n\n    color: var(--orange);\n}\n\n\n.srmfg-304-toc-icon svg {\n    width: 100%;\n    height: 100%;\n\n    display: block;\n}\n\n\n.srmfg-304-toc-label-small {\n    display: block;\n\n    margin-bottom: 4px;\n\n    color: var(--orange);\n\n    font-size: 9px;\n    font-weight: 700;\n    line-height: 1;\n\n    letter-spacing: .7px;\n    text-transform: uppercase;\n}\n\n\n.srmfg-304-toc-label-main {\n    display: block;\n\n    color: var(--text);\n\n    font-size: 16px;\n    font-weight: 700;\n    line-height: 1.1;\n}\n\n\n\/* =========================================================\n   Horizontal Navigation Area\n========================================================= *\/\n\n.srmfg-304-toc-scroll {\n    flex: 1 1 auto;\n    min-width: 0;\n\n    overflow-x: auto;\n    overflow-y: hidden;\n\n    scrollbar-width: none;\n    -webkit-overflow-scrolling: touch;\n}\n\n\n.srmfg-304-toc-scroll::-webkit-scrollbar {\n    display: none;\n}\n\n\n.srmfg-304-toc-links {\n    width: max-content;\n    min-width: 100%;\n\n    display: flex;\n    align-items: center;\n}\n\n\n\/* =========================================================\n   Menu Item\n========================================================= *\/\n\n.srmfg-304-toc-link {\n    position: relative;\n\n    flex: 0 0 auto;\n\n    min-height: 56px;\n\n    padding: 0 16px;\n\n    display: inline-flex;\n    align-items: center;\n    justify-content: center;\n\n    box-sizing: border-box;\n\n    border-right: 1px solid var(--border);\n\n    color: var(--text) !important;\n\n    font-size: 12px;\n    font-weight: 600;\n    line-height: 1.25;\n\n    text-align: center;\n    white-space: nowrap;\n\n    text-decoration: none !important;\n\n    transition:\n        color .2s ease,\n        background .2s ease;\n}\n\n\n.srmfg-304-toc-link:hover {\n    color: var(--orange) !important;\n\n    background: #fffaf7;\n}\n\n\n\/* =========================================================\n   Default Active - Overview\n   No JS, so this remains the highlighted item\n========================================================= *\/\n\n.srmfg-304-toc-link.is-active {\n    min-height: 48px;\n\n    margin: 0 6px;\n\n    padding-left: 22px;\n    padding-right: 22px;\n\n    border-right: 0;\n    border-radius: 6px;\n\n    background:\n        linear-gradient(\n            135deg,\n            #153e6a 0%,\n            #082a4c 100%\n        );\n\n    color: #ffffff !important;\n\n    font-weight: 700;\n\n    box-shadow:\n        0 5px 13px rgba(13,49,88,.17);\n}\n\n\n\/* Orange marker *\/\n.srmfg-304-toc-link.is-active::after {\n    content: \"\";\n\n    position: absolute;\n\n    left: 50%;\n    bottom: -8px;\n\n    transform: translateX(-50%);\n\n    width: 0;\n    height: 0;\n\n    border-left: 6px solid transparent;\n    border-right: 6px solid transparent;\n    border-top: 6px solid var(--orange);\n}\n\n\n\/* =========================================================\n   CTA\n========================================================= *\/\n\n.srmfg-304-toc-cta-wrap {\n    flex: 0 0 auto;\n\n    margin-left: 12px;\n    padding-left: 17px;\n\n    border-left: 1px solid var(--border);\n}\n\n\n.srmfg-304-toc-cta {\n    height: 46px;\n\n    padding: 0 20px;\n\n    display: inline-flex;\n    align-items: center;\n    justify-content: center;\n\n    gap: 9px;\n\n    box-sizing: border-box;\n\n    border-radius: 6px;\n\n    background: var(--orange);\n\n    color: #ffffff !important;\n\n    font-size: 12px;\n    font-weight: 700;\n    line-height: 1;\n\n    white-space: nowrap;\n\n    text-decoration: none !important;\n\n    box-shadow:\n        0 5px 14px rgba(255,100,37,.20);\n\n    transition:\n        background .2s ease,\n        transform .2s ease,\n        box-shadow .2s ease;\n}\n\n\n.srmfg-304-toc-cta:hover {\n    background: #e95218;\n\n    color: #ffffff !important;\n\n    transform: translateY(-1px);\n\n    box-shadow:\n        0 7px 17px rgba(255,100,37,.25);\n}\n\n\n.srmfg-304-toc-arrow {\n    display: inline-block;\n\n    font-size: 16px;\n\n    transition: transform .2s ease;\n}\n\n\n.srmfg-304-toc-cta:hover\n.srmfg-304-toc-arrow {\n    transform: translateX(3px);\n}\n\n\n\/* =========================================================\n   Anchor Offset\n========================================================= *\/\n\n#st304-overview,\n#st304-standards,\n#st304-composition,\n#st304-surface-finishes,\n#st304-fabrication,\n#st304-grade-selection,\n#st304-applications,\n#st304-misconceptions {\n    scroll-margin-top: 110px;\n}\n\n\n\/* =========================================================\n   Smaller Desktop\n========================================================= *\/\n\n@media (max-width: 1350px) {\n\n    .srmfg-304-toc-label {\n        flex-basis: 125px;\n\n        padding-right: 14px;\n    }\n\n\n    .srmfg-304-toc-link {\n        padding-left: 13px;\n        padding-right: 13px;\n\n        font-size: 11.5px;\n    }\n\n\n    .srmfg-304-toc-link.is-active {\n        padding-left: 18px;\n        padding-right: 18px;\n    }\n\n}\n\n\n\/* =========================================================\n   Hide CTA First\n========================================================= *\/\n\n@media (max-width: 1180px) {\n\n    .srmfg-304-toc-cta-wrap {\n        display: none;\n    }\n\n\n    .srmfg-304-toc-links {\n        min-width: max-content;\n    }\n\n}\n\n\n\/* =========================================================\n   Tablet\n========================================================= *\/\n\n@media (max-width: 900px) {\n\n    .srmfg-304-toc {\n        padding: 7px 9px;\n    }\n\n\n    .srmfg-304-toc-label {\n        flex-basis: 105px;\n\n        gap: 8px;\n    }\n\n\n    .srmfg-304-toc-icon {\n        width: 27px;\n        height: 27px;\n        min-width: 27px;\n    }\n\n\n    .srmfg-304-toc-label-small {\n        font-size: 7.5px;\n    }\n\n\n    .srmfg-304-toc-label-main {\n        font-size: 14px;\n    }\n\n}\n\n\n\/* =========================================================\n   Mobile\n========================================================= *\/\n\n@media (max-width: 767px) {\n\n    .srmfg-304-toc {\n        padding: 6px 7px;\n\n        border-radius: 7px;\n    }\n\n\n    .srmfg-304-toc-label {\n        display: none;\n    }\n\n\n    .srmfg-304-toc-links {\n        min-width: max-content;\n    }\n\n\n    .srmfg-304-toc-link {\n        min-height: 46px;\n\n        padding: 0 13px;\n\n        font-size: 11px;\n    }\n\n\n    .srmfg-304-toc-link.is-active {\n        min-height: 40px;\n\n        margin-left: 0;\n\n        padding-left: 17px;\n        padding-right: 17px;\n    }\n\n}\n<\/style>\n\n\n<nav\n    class=\"srmfg-304-toc\"\n    aria-label=\"Type 304 stainless steel page navigation\"\n>\n\n    <div class=\"srmfg-304-toc-inner\">\n\n\n        <!-- =========================================\n             ON THIS PAGE\n        ========================================== -->\n\n        <div class=\"srmfg-304-toc-label\">\n\n            <div class=\"srmfg-304-toc-icon\">\n\n                <svg viewBox=\"0 0 40 40\" aria-hidden=\"true\">\n\n                    <circle cx=\"6\" cy=\"9\" r=\"2\" fill=\"currentColor\"\/>\n                    <circle cx=\"6\" cy=\"20\" r=\"2\" fill=\"currentColor\"\/>\n                    <circle cx=\"6\" cy=\"31\" r=\"2\" fill=\"currentColor\"\/>\n\n                    <path\n                        d=\"M14 9H34\n                           M14 20H34\n                           M14 31H34\"\n                        fill=\"none\"\n                        stroke=\"currentColor\"\n                        stroke-width=\"2.4\"\n                        stroke-linecap=\"round\"\n                    \/>\n\n                <\/svg>\n\n            <\/div>\n\n\n            <div>\n\n                <span class=\"srmfg-304-toc-label-small\">\n                    On This Page\n                <\/span>\n\n                <span class=\"srmfg-304-toc-label-main\">\n                    304 Guide\n                <\/span>\n\n            <\/div>\n\n        <\/div>\n\n\n\n        <!-- =========================================\n             NAVIGATION\n        ========================================== -->\n\n        <div class=\"srmfg-304-toc-scroll\">\n\n            <div class=\"srmfg-304-toc-links\">\n\n\n                <!-- 01 -->\n                <a\n                    href=\"#st304-overview\"\n                    class=\"srmfg-304-toc-link is-active\"\n                >\n                    Overview\n                <\/a>\n\n\n                <!-- 02 -->\n                <a\n                    href=\"#st304-standards\"\n                    class=\"srmfg-304-toc-link\"\n                >\n                    Standards\n                <\/a>\n\n\n                <!-- 03 -->\n                <a\n                    href=\"#st304-composition\"\n                    class=\"srmfg-304-toc-link\"\n                >\n                    Composition\n                <\/a>\n\n\n                <!-- 04 -->\n                <a\n                    href=\"#st304-surface-finishes\"\n                    class=\"srmfg-304-toc-link\"\n                >\n                    Surface Finishes\n                <\/a>\n\n\n                <!-- 05 -->\n                <a\n                    href=\"#st304-fabrication\"\n                    class=\"srmfg-304-toc-link\"\n                >\n                    Fabrication\n                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class=\"srmfg-304-toc-cta\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">\n                Get a Quote\n\n                <span class=\"srmfg-304-toc-arrow\">\n                    \u2192\n                <\/span>\n\n            <\/a>\n\n        <\/div>\n\n\n    <\/div>\n\n<\/nav><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><div class=\"fusion-fullwidth fullwidth-box fusion-builder-row-3 fusion-flex-container has-pattern-background has-mask-background nonhundred-percent-fullwidth non-hundred-percent-height-scrolling fusion-custom-z-index\" style=\"--awb-border-radius-top-left:0px;--awb-border-radius-top-right:0px;--awb-border-radius-bottom-right:0px;--awb-border-radius-bottom-left:0px;--awb-z-index:1;--awb-padding-top:124px;--awb-padding-bottom:144px;--awb-padding-top-medium:64px;--awb-padding-bottom-medium:96px;--awb-background-color:#f5f7f9;--awb-flex-wrap:wrap;\" id=\"st304-overview\" ><div class=\"fusion-builder-row fusion-row fusion-flex-align-items-flex-start fusion-flex-justify-content-center fusion-flex-content-wrap\" style=\"max-width:1248px;margin-left: calc(-4% \/ 2 );margin-right: calc(-4% \/ 2 );\"><div class=\"fusion-layout-column fusion_builder_column fusion-builder-column-3 fusion_builder_column_3_4 3_4 fusion-flex-column\" style=\"--awb-bg-size:cover;--awb-width-large:75%;--awb-margin-top-large:0px;--awb-spacing-right-large:2.56%;--awb-margin-bottom-large:72px;--awb-spacing-left-large:2.56%;--awb-width-medium:75%;--awb-order-medium:0;--awb-spacing-right-medium:2.56%;--awb-spacing-left-medium:2.56%;--awb-width-small:100%;--awb-order-small:0;--awb-spacing-right-small:1.92%;--awb-spacing-left-small:1.92%;\"><div class=\"fusion-column-wrapper fusion-column-has-shadow fusion-flex-justify-content-flex-start fusion-content-layout-column\"><div class=\"fusion-title title fusion-title-3 fusion-sep-none fusion-title-center fusion-title-text fusion-title-size-two\" style=\"--awb-text-color:#040d16;--awb-font-size:35px;\" id=\"overview\"><h2 class=\"fusion-title-heading title-heading-center\" style=\"font-family:&quot;Plus Jakarta Sans&quot;;font-style:normal;font-weight:700;margin:0;letter-spacing:-0.02em;text-transform:var(--awb-typography1-text-transform);font-size:1em;line-height:1.12em;\"><span style=\"color: #f25534;\">Understanding Type 304 Austenitic Stainless Steel (18\/8)<\/span>: The Basics<\/h2><\/div><\/div><\/div><div class=\"fusion-layout-column fusion_builder_column fusion-builder-column-4 fusion_builder_column_2_3 2_3 fusion-flex-column fusion-flex-align-self-stretch\" style=\"--awb-bg-size:cover;--awb-width-large:66.666666666667%;--awb-margin-top-large:0px;--awb-spacing-right-large:2.88%;--awb-margin-bottom-large:20px;--awb-spacing-left-large:2.88%;--awb-width-medium:66.666666666667%;--awb-order-medium:0;--awb-spacing-right-medium:2.88%;--awb-spacing-left-medium:2.88%;--awb-width-small:100%;--awb-order-small:0;--awb-spacing-right-small:1.92%;--awb-spacing-left-small:1.92%;\"><div class=\"fusion-column-wrapper fusion-column-has-shadow fusion-flex-justify-content-center fusion-content-layout-column\"><div class=\"fusion-text fusion-text-1\"><p data-start=\"494\" data-end=\"870\"><strong data-start=\"494\" data-end=\"517\">304 stainless steel<\/strong> belongs to the <strong data-start=\"533\" data-end=\"563\">austenitic stainless steel<\/strong> family and is one of the most widely used stainless steel grades in the world. It accounts for <strong data-start=\"659\" data-end=\"715\">more than half of global stainless steel consumption<\/strong>. It is also commonly referred to as <strong data-start=\"752\" data-end=\"776\">18\/8 stainless steel<\/strong>, a name that comes from its typical composition of around <strong data-start=\"835\" data-end=\"851\">18% chromium<\/strong> and <strong data-start=\"856\" data-end=\"869\">8% nickel<\/strong>.<\/p>\n<p data-start=\"872\" data-end=\"1195\">304 is often described as a <strong data-start=\"900\" data-end=\"935\">general-purpose stainless steel<\/strong> or an <strong data-start=\"942\" data-end=\"972\">all-around stainless steel<\/strong>. That reputation does not come from being the absolute best in one single property, but from its well-balanced performance across several key areas, including <strong data-start=\"1132\" data-end=\"1156\">corrosion resistance<\/strong>, <strong data-start=\"1158\" data-end=\"1173\">formability<\/strong>, and <strong data-start=\"1179\" data-end=\"1194\">weldability<\/strong>.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div><div class=\"fusion-layout-column fusion_builder_column fusion-builder-column-5 fusion_builder_column_1_3 1_3 fusion-flex-column fusion-flex-align-self-stretch\" style=\"--awb-bg-size:cover;--awb-width-large:33.333333333333%;--awb-margin-top-large:0px;--awb-spacing-right-large:5.76%;--awb-margin-bottom-large:20px;--awb-spacing-left-large:5.76%;--awb-width-medium:33.333333333333%;--awb-order-medium:0;--awb-spacing-right-medium:5.76%;--awb-spacing-left-medium:5.76%;--awb-width-small:100%;--awb-order-small:0;--awb-spacing-right-small:1.92%;--awb-spacing-left-small:1.92%;\"><div class=\"fusion-column-wrapper fusion-column-has-shadow fusion-flex-justify-content-center fusion-content-layout-column\"><div class=\"fusion-image-element \" style=\"--awb-caption-title-font-family:var(--h2_typography-font-family);--awb-caption-title-font-weight:var(--h2_typography-font-weight);--awb-caption-title-font-style:var(--h2_typography-font-style);--awb-caption-title-size:var(--h2_typography-font-size);--awb-caption-title-transform:var(--h2_typography-text-transform);--awb-caption-title-line-height:var(--h2_typography-line-height);--awb-caption-title-letter-spacing:var(--h2_typography-letter-spacing);\"><span class=\" fusion-imageframe imageframe-none imageframe-1 hover-type-none\" style=\"border-radius:20px;\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"1448\" height=\"1086\" alt=\"304 stainless steel sheet and fabricated parts used in general-purpose sheet metal fabrication\" title=\"304 Stainless Steel for Sheet Metal Fabrication\" src=\"https:\/\/ceshi.baoxuanmetal.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/304-Stainless-Steel-for-Sheet-Metal-Fabrication.webp\" class=\"img-responsive wp-image-6707\" srcset=\"https:\/\/ceshi.baoxuanmetal.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/304-Stainless-Steel-for-Sheet-Metal-Fabrication-200x150.webp 200w, https:\/\/ceshi.baoxuanmetal.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/304-Stainless-Steel-for-Sheet-Metal-Fabrication-300x225.webp 300w, https:\/\/ceshi.baoxuanmetal.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/304-Stainless-Steel-for-Sheet-Metal-Fabrication-400x300.webp 400w, https:\/\/ceshi.baoxuanmetal.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/304-Stainless-Steel-for-Sheet-Metal-Fabrication-500x375.webp 500w, https:\/\/ceshi.baoxuanmetal.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/304-Stainless-Steel-for-Sheet-Metal-Fabrication-600x450.webp 600w, https:\/\/ceshi.baoxuanmetal.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/304-Stainless-Steel-for-Sheet-Metal-Fabrication-700x525.webp 700w, https:\/\/ceshi.baoxuanmetal.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/304-Stainless-Steel-for-Sheet-Metal-Fabrication-768x576.webp 768w, https:\/\/ceshi.baoxuanmetal.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/304-Stainless-Steel-for-Sheet-Metal-Fabrication-800x600.webp 800w, https:\/\/ceshi.baoxuanmetal.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/304-Stainless-Steel-for-Sheet-Metal-Fabrication-1024x768.webp 1024w, https:\/\/ceshi.baoxuanmetal.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/304-Stainless-Steel-for-Sheet-Metal-Fabrication-1200x900.webp 1200w, https:\/\/ceshi.baoxuanmetal.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/304-Stainless-Steel-for-Sheet-Metal-Fabrication.webp 1448w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 640px) 100vw, 400px\" \/><\/span><\/div><\/div><\/div><div class=\"fusion-layout-column fusion_builder_column fusion-builder-column-6 fusion_builder_column_1_1 1_1 fusion-flex-column\" style=\"--awb-bg-size:cover;--awb-width-large:100%;--awb-margin-top-large:0px;--awb-spacing-right-large:1.92%;--awb-margin-bottom-large:20px;--awb-spacing-left-large:1.92%;--awb-width-medium:100%;--awb-order-medium:0;--awb-spacing-right-medium:1.92%;--awb-spacing-left-medium:1.92%;--awb-width-small:100%;--awb-order-small:0;--awb-spacing-right-small:1.92%;--awb-spacing-left-small:1.92%;\"><div class=\"fusion-column-wrapper fusion-column-has-shadow fusion-flex-justify-content-flex-start fusion-content-layout-column\"><div class=\"fusion-title title fusion-title-4 fusion-sep-none fusion-title-text fusion-title-size-two\" style=\"--awb-font-size:30px;\"><h2 class=\"fusion-title-heading title-heading-left\" style=\"margin:0;font-size:1em;\">Main Performance Characteristics of 304 Stainless Steel<\/h2><\/div><\/div><\/div><div class=\"fusion-layout-column fusion_builder_column fusion-builder-column-7 fusion_builder_column_1_2 1_2 fusion-flex-column fusion-flex-align-self-stretch\" style=\"--awb-padding-top:36px;--awb-padding-right:36px;--awb-padding-bottom:36px;--awb-padding-left:36px;--awb-overflow:hidden;--awb-bg-color:#ffffff;--awb-bg-color-hover:#ffffff;--awb-bg-size:cover;--awb-box-shadow:0px 4px 3px -3px rgba(79,93,109,0.08);;--awb-border-color:rgba(4,13,22,0.1);--awb-border-bottom:1px;--awb-border-style:solid;--awb-border-radius:32px 32px 32px 32px;--awb-transform:translateY(0px);--awb-transform-hover:translateY(-4px);--awb-width-large:50%;--awb-margin-top-large:0px;--awb-spacing-right-large:3.84%;--awb-margin-bottom-large:0px;--awb-spacing-left-large:3.84%;--awb-width-medium:50%;--awb-order-medium:0;--awb-spacing-right-medium:3.84%;--awb-margin-bottom-medium:10px;--awb-spacing-left-medium:3.84%;--awb-width-small:100%;--awb-order-small:0;--awb-spacing-right-small:1.92%;--awb-spacing-left-small:1.92%;\"><div class=\"fusion-column-wrapper fusion-column-has-shadow fusion-flex-justify-content-flex-start fusion-content-layout-column\"><div class=\"fusion-title title fusion-title-5 fusion-sep-none fusion-title-text fusion-title-size-four\" style=\"--awb-font-size:20px;\"><h4 class=\"fusion-title-heading title-heading-left\" style=\"margin:0;font-size:1em;\">Corrosion Resistance<\/h4><\/div><div class=\"fusion-text fusion-text-2\"><p><strong data-start=\"1290\" data-end=\"1314\">Corrosion resistance<\/strong> is one of the most important advantages of <strong data-start=\"1358\" data-end=\"1381\">304 stainless steel<\/strong>. In normal atmospheric conditions, as well as in many environments involving mild exposure to <strong data-start=\"1476\" data-end=\"1505\">acids, alkalis, and salts<\/strong>, 304 performs very well. This is one of the main reasons it is widely used in <strong data-start=\"1584\" data-end=\"1679\">food processing, medical applications, indoor environments, and general industrial settings<\/strong>.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div><div class=\"fusion-layout-column fusion_builder_column fusion-builder-column-8 fusion_builder_column_1_2 1_2 fusion-flex-column\" style=\"--awb-padding-top:36px;--awb-padding-right:36px;--awb-padding-bottom:36px;--awb-padding-left:36px;--awb-overflow:hidden;--awb-bg-color:#ffffff;--awb-bg-color-hover:#ffffff;--awb-bg-size:cover;--awb-box-shadow:0px 4px 3px -3px rgba(79,93,109,0.08);;--awb-border-color:rgba(4,13,22,0.1);--awb-border-bottom:1px;--awb-border-style:solid;--awb-border-radius:32px 32px 32px 32px;--awb-transform:translateY(0px);--awb-transform-hover:translateY(-4px);--awb-width-large:50%;--awb-margin-top-large:0px;--awb-spacing-right-large:3.84%;--awb-margin-bottom-large:0px;--awb-spacing-left-large:3.84%;--awb-width-medium:50%;--awb-order-medium:0;--awb-spacing-right-medium:3.84%;--awb-margin-bottom-medium:10px;--awb-spacing-left-medium:3.84%;--awb-width-small:100%;--awb-order-small:0;--awb-spacing-right-small:1.92%;--awb-spacing-left-small:1.92%;\"><div class=\"fusion-column-wrapper fusion-column-has-shadow fusion-flex-justify-content-flex-start fusion-content-layout-column\"><div class=\"fusion-title title fusion-title-6 fusion-sep-none fusion-title-text fusion-title-size-four\" style=\"--awb-font-size:20px;\"><h4 class=\"fusion-title-heading title-heading-left\" style=\"margin:0;font-size:1em;\">Formability<\/h4><\/div><div class=\"fusion-text fusion-text-3\"><p>304 stainless steel offers <strong data-start=\"1729\" data-end=\"1754\">excellent formability<\/strong>. Its austenitic structure gives it strong ductility, with <strong data-start=\"1813\" data-end=\"1868\">elongation of 40% or more in the annealed condition<\/strong>, making it highly suitable for <strong data-start=\"1900\" data-end=\"1964\">bending, drawing, stamping, and other cold-forming processes<\/strong>. Its yield strength is typically around <strong data-start=\"2005\" data-end=\"2016\">205 MPa<\/strong>, and its tensile strength is about <strong data-start=\"2052\" data-end=\"2063\">520 MPa<\/strong>. This balance means it can meet structural strength requirements while still delivering very good processing performance.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div><div class=\"fusion-layout-column fusion_builder_column fusion-builder-column-9 fusion_builder_column_1_2 1_2 fusion-flex-column\" style=\"--awb-padding-top:36px;--awb-padding-right:36px;--awb-padding-bottom:36px;--awb-padding-left:36px;--awb-overflow:hidden;--awb-bg-color:#ffffff;--awb-bg-color-hover:#ffffff;--awb-bg-size:cover;--awb-box-shadow:0px 4px 3px -3px rgba(79,93,109,0.08);;--awb-border-color:rgba(4,13,22,0.1);--awb-border-bottom:1px;--awb-border-style:solid;--awb-border-radius:32px 32px 32px 32px;--awb-transform:translateY(0px);--awb-transform-hover:translateY(-4px);--awb-width-large:50%;--awb-margin-top-large:10px;--awb-spacing-right-large:3.84%;--awb-margin-bottom-large:0px;--awb-spacing-left-large:3.84%;--awb-width-medium:50%;--awb-order-medium:0;--awb-spacing-right-medium:3.84%;--awb-margin-bottom-medium:10px;--awb-spacing-left-medium:3.84%;--awb-width-small:100%;--awb-order-small:0;--awb-spacing-right-small:1.92%;--awb-spacing-left-small:1.92%;\"><div class=\"fusion-column-wrapper fusion-column-has-shadow fusion-flex-justify-content-flex-start fusion-content-layout-column\"><div class=\"fusion-title title fusion-title-7 fusion-sep-none fusion-title-text fusion-title-size-four\" style=\"--awb-font-size:20px;\"><h4 class=\"fusion-title-heading title-heading-left\" style=\"margin:0;font-size:1em;\">Weldability<\/h4><\/div><div class=\"fusion-text fusion-text-4\"><p>304 has <strong data-start=\"2215\" data-end=\"2235\">good weldability<\/strong> and is compatible with most standard welding processes. In many cases, <strong data-start=\"2307\" data-end=\"2364\">no heat treatment is required before or after welding<\/strong>. However, one important point to note is that the heat-affected zone may experience <strong data-start=\"2449\" data-end=\"2483\">chromium carbide precipitation<\/strong>, which can reduce the chromium content near the weld and create a <strong data-start=\"2550\" data-end=\"2569\">sensitized zone<\/strong>. This may increase the risk of corrosion in certain environments. For projects involving a significant amount of welding, <strong data-start=\"2692\" data-end=\"2700\">304L<\/strong>, the low-carbon version, is often a better choice.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div><div class=\"fusion-layout-column fusion_builder_column fusion-builder-column-10 fusion_builder_column_1_2 1_2 fusion-flex-column fusion-flex-align-self-stretch\" style=\"--awb-padding-top:36px;--awb-padding-right:36px;--awb-padding-bottom:36px;--awb-padding-left:36px;--awb-overflow:hidden;--awb-bg-color:#ffffff;--awb-bg-color-hover:#ffffff;--awb-bg-size:cover;--awb-box-shadow:0px 4px 3px -3px rgba(79,93,109,0.08);;--awb-border-color:rgba(4,13,22,0.1);--awb-border-bottom:1px;--awb-border-style:solid;--awb-border-radius:32px 32px 32px 32px;--awb-transform:translateY(0px);--awb-transform-hover:translateY(-4px);--awb-width-large:50%;--awb-margin-top-large:10px;--awb-spacing-right-large:3.84%;--awb-margin-bottom-large:0px;--awb-spacing-left-large:3.84%;--awb-width-medium:50%;--awb-order-medium:0;--awb-spacing-right-medium:3.84%;--awb-margin-bottom-medium:10px;--awb-spacing-left-medium:3.84%;--awb-width-small:100%;--awb-order-small:0;--awb-spacing-right-small:1.92%;--awb-spacing-left-small:1.92%;\"><div class=\"fusion-column-wrapper fusion-column-has-shadow fusion-flex-justify-content-flex-start fusion-content-layout-column\"><div class=\"fusion-title title fusion-title-8 fusion-sep-none fusion-title-text fusion-title-size-four\" style=\"--awb-font-size:20px;\"><h4 class=\"fusion-title-heading title-heading-left\" style=\"margin:0;font-size:1em;\">Surface Finish Options<\/h4><\/div><div class=\"fusion-text fusion-text-5\"><p>304 stainless steel is available in a wide range of surface finishes, including <strong data-start=\"2864\" data-end=\"2903\">2B, BA, No.4, HL, and mirror finish<\/strong>. Different finishes suit different applications. <strong data-start=\"2953\" data-end=\"2959\">2B<\/strong> is commonly used for industrial parts and general enclosures; <strong data-start=\"3022\" data-end=\"3028\">BA<\/strong> is more suitable for parts that require a brighter finish; and <strong data-start=\"3092\" data-end=\"3100\">No.4<\/strong> or <strong data-start=\"3104\" data-end=\"3110\">HL<\/strong> is often used for decorative surfaces, appliance panels, and visible appearance parts. This variety of finishes allows 304 to meet both <strong data-start=\"3247\" data-end=\"3261\">functional<\/strong> and <strong data-start=\"3266\" data-end=\"3280\">decorative<\/strong> requirements.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div><div class=\"fusion-layout-column fusion_builder_column fusion-builder-column-11 fusion_builder_column_1_2 1_2 fusion-flex-column fusion-flex-align-self-stretch\" style=\"--awb-padding-top:36px;--awb-padding-right:36px;--awb-padding-bottom:36px;--awb-padding-left:36px;--awb-overflow:hidden;--awb-bg-color:#ffffff;--awb-bg-color-hover:#ffffff;--awb-bg-size:cover;--awb-box-shadow:0px 4px 3px -3px rgba(79,93,109,0.08);;--awb-border-color:rgba(4,13,22,0.1);--awb-border-bottom:1px;--awb-border-style:solid;--awb-border-radius:32px 32px 32px 32px;--awb-transform:translateY(0px);--awb-transform-hover:translateY(-4px);--awb-width-large:50%;--awb-margin-top-large:10px;--awb-spacing-right-large:3.84%;--awb-margin-bottom-large:0px;--awb-spacing-left-large:3.84%;--awb-width-medium:50%;--awb-order-medium:0;--awb-spacing-right-medium:3.84%;--awb-margin-bottom-medium:10px;--awb-spacing-left-medium:3.84%;--awb-width-small:100%;--awb-order-small:0;--awb-spacing-right-small:1.92%;--awb-spacing-left-small:1.92%;\"><div class=\"fusion-column-wrapper fusion-column-has-shadow fusion-flex-justify-content-flex-start fusion-content-layout-column\"><div class=\"fusion-title title fusion-title-9 fusion-sep-none fusion-title-text fusion-title-size-four\" style=\"--awb-font-size:20px;\"><h4 class=\"fusion-title-heading title-heading-left\" style=\"margin:0;font-size:1em;\">Heat Resistance and Mechanical Properties<\/h4><\/div><div class=\"fusion-text fusion-text-6\"><p>304 stainless steel can maintain stable performance over a wide temperature range, roughly from <strong data-start=\"3442\" data-end=\"3461\">-196\u00b0C to 800\u00b0C<\/strong>. That said, this does not mean it is suitable for every high-temperature application. <strong data-start=\"3548\" data-end=\"3582\">Long-term exposure above 425\u00b0C<\/strong> can lead to <strong data-start=\"3595\" data-end=\"3612\">sensitization<\/strong>, and temperatures above <strong data-start=\"3637\" data-end=\"3646\">800\u00b0C<\/strong> may result in oxidation. In terms of mechanical properties, 304 offers <strong data-start=\"3718\" data-end=\"3739\">moderate strength<\/strong> rather than high strength, but its <strong data-start=\"3775\" data-end=\"3801\">toughness is excellent<\/strong>, which makes it a strong candidate for a wide range of general-purpose applications. It is also important to note that <strong data-start=\"3921\" data-end=\"3965\">304 cannot be hardened by heat treatment<\/strong>; its strength can only be increased through <strong data-start=\"4010\" data-end=\"4026\">cold working<\/strong>.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><div class=\"fusion-fullwidth fullwidth-box fusion-builder-row-4 fusion-flex-container has-pattern-background has-mask-background nonhundred-percent-fullwidth non-hundred-percent-height-scrolling fusion-custom-z-index\" style=\"--awb-border-radius-top-left:0px;--awb-border-radius-top-right:0px;--awb-border-radius-bottom-right:0px;--awb-border-radius-bottom-left:0px;--awb-z-index:1;--awb-padding-bottom:96px;--awb-padding-bottom-medium:48px;--awb-background-color:#f5f7f9;--awb-flex-wrap:wrap;\" id=\"st304-standards\" ><div class=\"awb-background-mask\" style=\"background-image:  url(data:image\/svg+xml;utf8,%3Csvg%20width%3D%221920%22%20height%3D%22954%22%20fill%3D%22none%22%20xmlns%3D%22http%3A%2F%2Fwww.w3.org%2F2000%2Fsvg%22%3E%3Cg%20clip-path%3D%22url%28%23prefix__clip0_58_109%29%22%20fill%3D%22rgba%28255%2C255%2C255%2C1%29%22%3E%3Cpath%20d%3D%22M1020.86%20519.766c6.47-11.566%2022.45-20.942%2035.71-20.942h375.02c30.93%200%2043.77%2021.877%2028.68%2048.863L1204.02%201006H749l271.86-486.234zM1755.66%20419.989c6.47-11.664%2022.45-21.12%2035.7-21.12h391.65c26.5%200%2037.5%2018.912%2024.57%2042.24L1923%20954h-463.62l296.28-534.011z%22%2F%3E%3Cpath%20d%3D%22M1371.86%20126.941c6.47-11.565%2022.46-20.941%2035.71-20.941h376.02c30.93%200%2043.77%2021.877%2028.68%2048.863L1371%20954H914.98l456.88-827.059z%22%2F%3E%3C%2Fg%3E%3Cdefs%3E%3CclipPath%20id%3D%22prefix__clip0_58_109%22%3E%3Cpath%20fill%3D%22%23fff%22%20d%3D%22M0%200h1920v954H0z%22%2F%3E%3C%2FclipPath%3E%3C%2Fdefs%3E%3C%2Fsvg%3E);opacity: 1 ;mix-blend-mode:normal;\"><\/div><div class=\"fusion-builder-row fusion-row fusion-flex-align-items-stretch fusion-flex-content-wrap\" style=\"max-width:1248px;margin-left: calc(-4% \/ 2 );margin-right: calc(-4% \/ 2 );\"><div class=\"fusion-layout-column fusion_builder_column fusion-builder-column-12 fusion-flex-column fusion-animated\" style=\"--awb-padding-top-small:48px;--awb-padding-right-small:48px;--awb-padding-bottom-small:48px;--awb-padding-left-small:48px;--awb-bg-size:cover;--awb-width-large:45%;--awb-margin-top-large:0px;--awb-spacing-right-large:4.2666666666667%;--awb-margin-bottom-large:60px;--awb-spacing-left-large:4.2666666666667%;--awb-width-medium:45%;--awb-spacing-right-medium:10.666666666667%;--awb-spacing-left-medium:14.933333333333%;--awb-width-small:100%;--awb-order-small:1;--awb-spacing-right-small:1.92%;--awb-margin-bottom-small:0px;--awb-spacing-left-small:1.92%;\" data-animationType=\"fadeInRight\" data-animationDuration=\"1.6\" data-animationOffset=\"top-into-view\"><div class=\"fusion-column-wrapper fusion-column-has-shadow fusion-flex-justify-content-center fusion-content-layout-column\"><div class=\"fusion-title title fusion-title-10 fusion-sep-none fusion-title-text fusion-title-size-two\" style=\"--awb-text-color:#040d16;--awb-margin-bottom:20px;--awb-font-size:48px;\" id=\"standards-specifications\"><h2 class=\"fusion-title-heading title-heading-left fusion-responsive-typography-calculated\" style=\"font-family:&quot;Plus Jakarta Sans&quot;;font-style:normal;font-weight:700;margin:0;letter-spacing:-0.02em;text-transform:var(--awb-typography1-text-transform);font-size:1em;--fontSize:48;line-height:1.12;\">Common Standards and Grade Systems for 304 Stainless Steel<\/h2><\/div><div class=\"fusion-text fusion-text-7 fusion-text-no-margin\" style=\"--awb-font-size:15px;--awb-line-height:1.4em;--awb-letter-spacing:0.015em;--awb-text-transform:var(--awb-typography4-text-transform);--awb-text-color:rgba(4,13,22,0.8);--awb-margin-bottom:40px;--awb-text-font-family:&quot;Plus Jakarta Sans&quot;;--awb-text-font-style:normal;--awb-text-font-weight:400;\"><p data-start=\"116\" data-end=\"339\">Different countries and regions use different naming systems for <strong data-start=\"181\" data-end=\"204\">304 stainless steel<\/strong>, which can often cause confusion in trade and technical communication. That is why it is important to understand the main equivalents.<\/p>\n<p data-start=\"341\" data-end=\"730\">It is also worth noting that although the names may differ across standards, the underlying material system is broadly the same. Even so, these designations should still be checked carefully during procurement, because materials with similar or equivalent grade names may still differ slightly in <strong data-start=\"638\" data-end=\"662\">chemical composition<\/strong> and <strong data-start=\"667\" data-end=\"703\">mechanical property requirements<\/strong> depending on the standard.<\/p>\n<\/div><div ><a class=\"fusion-button button-flat fusion-button-default-size button-custom fusion-button-default button-1 fusion-button-default-span fusion-button-default-type\" style=\"--button_accent_color:#ffffff;--button_border_color:#f25534;--button_accent_hover_color:#ffffff;--button_border_hover_color:#df4626;--button-border-radius-top-left:16px;--button-border-radius-top-right:16px;--button-border-radius-bottom-right:16px;--button-border-radius-bottom-left:16px;--button_gradient_top_color:#f25534;--button_gradient_bottom_color:#f25534;--button_gradient_top_color_hover:#df4626;--button_gradient_bottom_color_hover:#df4626;--button_text_transform:capitalize;--button_font_size:20px;--button_line_height:1.4em;--button_padding-top:16px;--button_padding-right:36px;--button_padding-bottom:16px;--button_padding-left:36px;--button_typography-letter-spacing:0.01em;--button_typography-font-family:&quot;Plus Jakarta Sans&quot;;--button_typography-font-style:normal;--button_typography-font-weight:500;\" target=\"_self\"><span class=\"fusion-button-text awb-button__text awb-button__text--default\">Get Started<\/span><\/a><\/div><\/div><\/div><div class=\"fusion-layout-column fusion_builder_column fusion-builder-column-13 fusion_builder_column_1_2 1_2 fusion-flex-column fusion-animated\" style=\"--awb-bg-size:cover;--awb-width-large:50%;--awb-margin-top-large:0px;--awb-spacing-right-large:3.84%;--awb-margin-bottom-large:60px;--awb-spacing-left-large:3.84%;--awb-width-medium:50%;--awb-order-medium:0;--awb-spacing-right-medium:3.84%;--awb-spacing-left-medium:3.84%;--awb-width-small:100%;--awb-order-small:0;--awb-margin-top-small:0px;--awb-spacing-right-small:1.92%;--awb-margin-bottom-small:0px;--awb-spacing-left-small:1.92%;\" data-animationType=\"fadeInLeft\" data-animationDuration=\"1.6\" data-animationOffset=\"top-into-view\"><div class=\"fusion-column-wrapper fusion-column-has-shadow fusion-flex-justify-content-center fusion-content-layout-column\"><div class=\"fusion-image-element \" style=\"--awb-caption-title-font-family:var(--h2_typography-font-family);--awb-caption-title-font-weight:var(--h2_typography-font-weight);--awb-caption-title-font-style:var(--h2_typography-font-style);--awb-caption-title-size:var(--h2_typography-font-size);--awb-caption-title-transform:var(--h2_typography-text-transform);--awb-caption-title-line-height:var(--h2_typography-line-height);--awb-caption-title-letter-spacing:var(--h2_typography-letter-spacing);\"><span class=\" fusion-imageframe imageframe-none imageframe-2 hover-type-none\" style=\"border-radius:20px;\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"1448\" height=\"1086\" title=\"304 Stainless Steel Incoming Inspection and Grade Verification\" src=\"https:\/\/ceshi.baoxuanmetal.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/304-Stainless-Steel-Incoming-Inspection-and-Grade-Verification.webp\" alt class=\"img-responsive wp-image-6708\" srcset=\"https:\/\/ceshi.baoxuanmetal.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/304-Stainless-Steel-Incoming-Inspection-and-Grade-Verification-200x150.webp 200w, https:\/\/ceshi.baoxuanmetal.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/304-Stainless-Steel-Incoming-Inspection-and-Grade-Verification-300x225.webp 300w, https:\/\/ceshi.baoxuanmetal.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/304-Stainless-Steel-Incoming-Inspection-and-Grade-Verification-400x300.webp 400w, https:\/\/ceshi.baoxuanmetal.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/304-Stainless-Steel-Incoming-Inspection-and-Grade-Verification-500x375.webp 500w, https:\/\/ceshi.baoxuanmetal.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/304-Stainless-Steel-Incoming-Inspection-and-Grade-Verification-600x450.webp 600w, https:\/\/ceshi.baoxuanmetal.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/304-Stainless-Steel-Incoming-Inspection-and-Grade-Verification-700x525.webp 700w, https:\/\/ceshi.baoxuanmetal.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/304-Stainless-Steel-Incoming-Inspection-and-Grade-Verification-768x576.webp 768w, https:\/\/ceshi.baoxuanmetal.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/304-Stainless-Steel-Incoming-Inspection-and-Grade-Verification-800x600.webp 800w, https:\/\/ceshi.baoxuanmetal.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/304-Stainless-Steel-Incoming-Inspection-and-Grade-Verification-1024x768.webp 1024w, https:\/\/ceshi.baoxuanmetal.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/304-Stainless-Steel-Incoming-Inspection-and-Grade-Verification-1200x900.webp 1200w, https:\/\/ceshi.baoxuanmetal.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/304-Stainless-Steel-Incoming-Inspection-and-Grade-Verification.webp 1448w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 640px) 100vw, 600px\" \/><\/span><\/div><\/div><\/div><div class=\"fusion-layout-column fusion_builder_column fusion-builder-column-14 fusion_builder_column_1_1 1_1 fusion-flex-column fusion-animated\" style=\"--awb-bg-size:cover;--awb-width-large:100%;--awb-margin-top-large:0px;--awb-spacing-right-large:1.92%;--awb-margin-bottom-large:60px;--awb-spacing-left-large:1.92%;--awb-width-medium:100%;--awb-order-medium:0;--awb-spacing-right-medium:1.92%;--awb-spacing-left-medium:1.92%;--awb-width-small:100%;--awb-order-small:2;--awb-spacing-right-small:1.92%;--awb-margin-bottom-small:0px;--awb-spacing-left-small:1.92%;\" data-animationType=\"fadeInLeft\" data-animationDuration=\"1.6\" data-animationOffset=\"top-into-view\"><div class=\"fusion-column-wrapper fusion-column-has-shadow fusion-flex-justify-content-center fusion-content-layout-column\"><div class=\"fusion-title title fusion-title-11 fusion-sep-none fusion-title-text fusion-title-size-three\" style=\"--awb-font-size:30px;\"><h3 class=\"fusion-title-heading title-heading-left\" style=\"margin:0;font-size:1em;\">International Standards and Common Grade Equivalents for 304 Stainless Steel<\/h3><\/div>\n<div class=\"table-2\">\n<table width=\"100%\">\n<thead>\n<tr>\n<th align=\"left\">Standard System<\/th>\n<th align=\"left\">Common Grade<\/th>\n<th align=\"left\">Equivalent Designation<\/th>\n<th align=\"left\">Notes<\/th>\n<\/tr>\n<\/thead>\n<tbody>\n<tr>\n<td align=\"left\"><strong>ASTM \/ AISI<\/strong><\/td>\n<td align=\"left\">304<\/td>\n<td align=\"left\">Type 304<\/td>\n<td align=\"left\">The most common English designation<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td align=\"left\"><strong>UNS<\/strong><\/td>\n<td align=\"left\">S30400<\/td>\n<td align=\"left\">Unified Numbering System<\/td>\n<td align=\"left\">Often used together with ASTM 304<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td align=\"left\"><strong>EN<\/strong><\/td>\n<td align=\"left\">1.4301<\/td>\n<td align=\"left\">X5CrNi18-10<\/td>\n<td align=\"left\">Common European designation<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td align=\"left\"><strong>JIS<\/strong><\/td>\n<td align=\"left\">SUS304<\/td>\n<td align=\"left\">\u2014<\/td>\n<td align=\"left\">Common Japanese designation<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td align=\"left\"><strong>GB (common marking)<\/strong><\/td>\n<td align=\"left\">06Cr19Ni10 \/ S30408<\/td>\n<td align=\"left\">\u2014<\/td>\n<td align=\"left\">Commonly seen in Chinese product labels and technical documents<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n<\/div>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><div class=\"fusion-fullwidth fullwidth-box fusion-builder-row-5 fusion-flex-container has-pattern-background has-mask-background nonhundred-percent-fullwidth non-hundred-percent-height-scrolling fusion-custom-z-index\" style=\"--awb-border-radius-top-left:0px;--awb-border-radius-top-right:0px;--awb-border-radius-bottom-right:0px;--awb-border-radius-bottom-left:0px;--awb-z-index:1;--awb-padding-top:124px;--awb-padding-bottom:72px;--awb-padding-right-medium:50px;--awb-padding-bottom-medium:72px;--awb-padding-left-medium:50px;--awb-background-color:#ffffff;--awb-flex-wrap:wrap;\" id=\"st304-composition\" ><div class=\"fusion-builder-row fusion-row fusion-flex-align-items-center fusion-flex-justify-content-center fusion-flex-content-wrap\" style=\"max-width:1248px;margin-left: calc(-4% \/ 2 );margin-right: calc(-4% \/ 2 );\"><div class=\"fusion-layout-column fusion_builder_column fusion-builder-column-15 fusion_builder_column_3_4 3_4 fusion-flex-column\" style=\"--awb-bg-size:cover;--awb-width-large:75%;--awb-margin-top-large:0px;--awb-spacing-right-large:2.56%;--awb-margin-bottom-large:72px;--awb-spacing-left-large:2.56%;--awb-width-medium:75%;--awb-order-medium:0;--awb-spacing-right-medium:2.56%;--awb-spacing-left-medium:2.56%;--awb-width-small:100%;--awb-order-small:0;--awb-spacing-right-small:1.92%;--awb-spacing-left-small:1.92%;\"><div class=\"fusion-column-wrapper fusion-column-has-shadow fusion-flex-justify-content-flex-start fusion-content-layout-column\"><div class=\"fusion-title title fusion-title-12 fusion-sep-none fusion-title-center fusion-title-text fusion-title-size-two\" style=\"--awb-text-color:#040d16;--awb-font-size:48px;\" id=\"material-properties\"><h2 class=\"fusion-title-heading title-heading-center\" style=\"font-family:&quot;Plus Jakarta Sans&quot;;font-style:normal;font-weight:700;margin:0;letter-spacing:-0.02em;text-transform:var(--awb-typography1-text-transform);font-size:1em;line-height:1.12em;\">Chemical Composition and Microstructural Characteristics of <span style=\"color: #f25534;\">304 Stainless Steel<\/span><\/h2><\/div><\/div><\/div><div class=\"fusion-layout-column fusion_builder_column fusion-builder-column-16 fusion_builder_column_1_1 1_1 fusion-flex-column\" style=\"--awb-bg-size:cover;--awb-width-large:100%;--awb-margin-top-large:0px;--awb-spacing-right-large:1.92%;--awb-margin-bottom-large:20px;--awb-spacing-left-large:1.92%;--awb-width-medium:100%;--awb-order-medium:0;--awb-spacing-right-medium:1.92%;--awb-spacing-left-medium:1.92%;--awb-width-small:100%;--awb-order-small:0;--awb-spacing-right-small:1.92%;--awb-spacing-left-small:1.92%;\"><div class=\"fusion-column-wrapper fusion-column-has-shadow fusion-flex-justify-content-flex-start fusion-content-layout-column\"><div class=\"fusion-text fusion-text-8\"><p data-start=\"1391\" data-end=\"1748\">The key alloying elements in <strong data-start=\"1420\" data-end=\"1443\">304 stainless steel<\/strong> are <strong data-start=\"1448\" data-end=\"1460\">chromium<\/strong> and <strong data-start=\"1465\" data-end=\"1475\">nickel<\/strong>. Chromium forms a dense <strong data-start=\"1500\" data-end=\"1516\">passive film<\/strong> on the surface of the material. This chromium oxide layer is what gives 304 its strong corrosion resistance. Nickel helps stabilize the <strong data-start=\"1653\" data-end=\"1677\">austenitic structure<\/strong>, improving toughness, formability, and overall processing performance.<\/p>\n<p data-start=\"1750\" data-end=\"1835\">The <strong data-start=\"1754\" data-end=\"1778\">austenitic structure<\/strong> gives 304 stainless steel the following characteristics:<\/p>\n<ul data-start=\"1837\" data-end=\"2373\">\n<li data-start=\"1837\" data-end=\"1960\"><strong data-start=\"1839\" data-end=\"1874\">Good ductility and formability:<\/strong> highly suitable for <strong data-start=\"1895\" data-end=\"1911\">deep drawing<\/strong>, <strong data-start=\"1913\" data-end=\"1924\">bending<\/strong>, and other cold-forming processes<\/li>\n<li data-start=\"1961\" data-end=\"2049\"><strong data-start=\"1963\" data-end=\"1998\">Good low-temperature toughness:<\/strong> suitable for use in low-temperature environments<\/li>\n<li data-start=\"2050\" data-end=\"2373\"><strong data-start=\"2052\" data-end=\"2077\">Usually non-magnetic:<\/strong> however, during cold working, part of the austenite may transform into martensite, which can cause the material to become slightly magnetic. This is an important characteristic and is sometimes misunderstood as a sign of poor material quality, when in fact it is a normal result of processing.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"table-2\">\n<table width=\"100%\">\n<thead>\n<tr>\n<th align=\"left\">Element<\/th>\n<th align=\"left\">Common Content Range<\/th>\n<th align=\"left\">Main Function<\/th>\n<th align=\"left\">Effect on Performance<\/th>\n<\/tr>\n<\/thead>\n<tbody>\n<tr>\n<td align=\"left\"><strong>C<\/strong><\/td>\n<td align=\"left\">304: \u22640.07; 304L: \u22640.03<\/td>\n<td align=\"left\">Controls susceptibility to <strong>intergranular corrosion<\/strong><\/td>\n<td align=\"left\"><strong>304L<\/strong> is better suited to projects involving more welding or greater sensitivity to post-weld corrosion resistance<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td align=\"left\"><strong>Cr<\/strong><\/td>\n<td align=\"left\">Approx. <strong>17.5\u201319.0%<\/strong><\/td>\n<td align=\"left\">Forms the passive film<\/td>\n<td align=\"left\">The foundation of corrosion resistance<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td align=\"left\"><strong>Ni<\/strong><\/td>\n<td align=\"left\">Approx. <strong>8.0\u201310.0%<\/strong><\/td>\n<td align=\"left\">Stabilizes the austenitic structure<\/td>\n<td align=\"left\">Improves ductility, toughness, and formability<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td align=\"left\">Mn \/ Si, etc.<\/td>\n<td align=\"left\">Auxiliary alloying elements<\/td>\n<td align=\"left\">Adjust metallurgical and processing characteristics<\/td>\n<td align=\"left\">Provide supporting effects on strength, deoxidation, and formability<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n<\/div>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><div class=\"fusion-fullwidth fullwidth-box fusion-builder-row-6 fusion-flex-container has-pattern-background has-mask-background nonhundred-percent-fullwidth non-hundred-percent-height-scrolling fusion-custom-z-index\" style=\"--awb-border-radius-top-left:0px;--awb-border-radius-top-right:0px;--awb-border-radius-bottom-right:0px;--awb-border-radius-bottom-left:0px;--awb-z-index:1;--awb-padding-top:96px;--awb-padding-bottom:96px;--awb-padding-top-medium:72px;--awb-padding-right-medium:30px;--awb-padding-bottom-medium:72px;--awb-padding-left-medium:30px;--awb-padding-bottom-small:72px;--awb-background-color:#ffffff;--awb-flex-wrap:wrap;\" id=\"st304-surface-finishes\" ><div class=\"fusion-builder-row fusion-row fusion-flex-align-items-stretch fusion-flex-justify-content-center fusion-flex-content-wrap\" style=\"max-width:1248px;margin-left: calc(-4% \/ 2 );margin-right: calc(-4% \/ 2 );\"><div class=\"fusion-layout-column fusion_builder_column fusion-builder-column-17 fusion_builder_column_3_4 3_4 fusion-flex-column\" style=\"--awb-bg-size:cover;--awb-width-large:75%;--awb-margin-top-large:0px;--awb-spacing-right-large:2.56%;--awb-margin-bottom-large:72px;--awb-spacing-left-large:2.56%;--awb-width-medium:75%;--awb-order-medium:0;--awb-spacing-right-medium:2.56%;--awb-spacing-left-medium:2.56%;--awb-width-small:100%;--awb-order-small:0;--awb-spacing-right-small:1.92%;--awb-spacing-left-small:1.92%;\"><div class=\"fusion-column-wrapper fusion-column-has-shadow fusion-flex-justify-content-flex-start fusion-content-layout-column\"><div class=\"fusion-title title fusion-title-13 fusion-sep-none fusion-title-center fusion-title-text fusion-title-size-two\" style=\"--awb-text-color:#040d16;--awb-font-size:48px;\" id=\"surface-quality\"><h2 class=\"fusion-title-heading title-heading-center\" style=\"font-family:&quot;Plus Jakarta Sans&quot;;font-style:normal;font-weight:700;margin:0;letter-spacing:-0.02em;text-transform:var(--awb-typography1-text-transform);font-size:1em;line-height:1.12em;\">Common Product Forms, Surface Finishes, and<span style=\"color: #f25534;\"> Supply Conditions of 304 Stainless Steel<\/span><\/h2><\/div><\/div><\/div><div class=\"fusion-layout-column fusion_builder_column fusion-builder-column-18 fusion_builder_column_1_1 1_1 fusion-flex-column\" style=\"--awb-bg-size:cover;--awb-width-large:100%;--awb-margin-top-large:0px;--awb-spacing-right-large:1.92%;--awb-margin-bottom-large:20px;--awb-spacing-left-large:1.92%;--awb-width-medium:100%;--awb-order-medium:0;--awb-spacing-right-medium:1.92%;--awb-spacing-left-medium:1.92%;--awb-width-small:100%;--awb-order-small:0;--awb-spacing-right-small:1.92%;--awb-spacing-left-small:1.92%;\"><div class=\"fusion-column-wrapper fusion-column-has-shadow fusion-flex-justify-content-flex-start fusion-content-layout-column\"><div class=\"fusion-text fusion-text-9\"><p data-start=\"142\" data-end=\"738\"><strong data-start=\"142\" data-end=\"165\">304 stainless steel<\/strong> is available in a wide range of product forms, making it suitable for many different types of projects. Common supply forms include <strong data-start=\"298\" data-end=\"354\">coil, sheet, cut-to-size plate, strip, tube, and bar<\/strong>. Each form is better suited to certain manufacturing methods. For example, <strong data-start=\"430\" data-end=\"438\">coil<\/strong> is ideal for high-volume production and continuous processing; <strong data-start=\"502\" data-end=\"525\">sheet and cut plate<\/strong> are better for cut-to-size fabrication and single-part production; <strong data-start=\"593\" data-end=\"602\">strip<\/strong> is commonly used for stamping and deep drawing; while <strong data-start=\"657\" data-end=\"673\">tube and bar<\/strong> are typically used for fluid handling and structural components.<\/p>\n<p data-start=\"740\" data-end=\"902\"><strong data-start=\"740\" data-end=\"758\">Surface finish<\/strong> is also an important consideration when selecting 304 stainless steel. The most common finishes and their typical applications are shown below:<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"table-2\">\n<table width=\"100%\">\n<thead>\n<tr>\n<th align=\"left\">Surface Finish<\/th>\n<th align=\"left\">Appearance<\/th>\n<th align=\"left\">Typical Applications<\/th>\n<th align=\"left\">Processing Considerations<\/th>\n<\/tr>\n<\/thead>\n<tbody>\n<tr>\n<td align=\"left\"><strong>2B<\/strong><\/td>\n<td align=\"left\">Smooth and bright, standard industrial finish<\/td>\n<td align=\"left\">Industrial parts, general enclosures, containers<\/td>\n<td align=\"left\">Avoid indentation during bending and excessive polishing<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td align=\"left\"><strong>BA<\/strong><\/td>\n<td align=\"left\">Brighter surface with higher reflectivity<\/td>\n<td align=\"left\">Parts requiring a brighter finish, precision instruments<\/td>\n<td align=\"left\">More sensitive to scratching, so extra protection is needed<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td align=\"left\"><strong>No.4 \/ HL<\/strong><\/td>\n<td align=\"left\">Uniform brushed or satin texture, matte finish<\/td>\n<td align=\"left\">Decorative surfaces, appliance panels, visible parts<\/td>\n<td align=\"left\">Keep the brushing direction consistent and protect the grain pattern<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td align=\"left\"><strong>Mirror finish<\/strong><\/td>\n<td align=\"left\">Highly reflective, nearly flawless surface<\/td>\n<td align=\"left\">Premium decorative applications, specialty uses<\/td>\n<td align=\"left\">Higher cost and stricter maintenance requirements<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td align=\"left\"><strong>No.1<\/strong><\/td>\n<td align=\"left\">Hot-rolled, annealed, and pickled with a rougher surface<\/td>\n<td align=\"left\">Structural parts, heavy plate, non-appearance components<\/td>\n<td align=\"left\">Good for welding and cutting, but not suitable for visible surfaces<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n<\/div>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><div class=\"fusion-fullwidth fullwidth-box fusion-builder-row-7 fusion-flex-container has-pattern-background has-mask-background nonhundred-percent-fullwidth non-hundred-percent-height-scrolling fusion-custom-z-index\" style=\"--awb-border-radius-top-left:0px;--awb-border-radius-top-right:0px;--awb-border-radius-bottom-right:0px;--awb-border-radius-bottom-left:0px;--awb-z-index:1;--awb-padding-top:48px;--awb-padding-bottom:124px;--awb-padding-right-medium:30px;--awb-padding-left-medium:30px;--awb-flex-wrap:wrap;\" id=\"st304-fabrication\" ><div class=\"fusion-builder-row fusion-row fusion-flex-align-items-flex-start fusion-flex-content-wrap\" style=\"max-width:1248px;margin-left: calc(-4% \/ 2 );margin-right: calc(-4% \/ 2 );\"><div class=\"fusion-layout-column fusion_builder_column fusion-builder-column-19 fusion_builder_column_1_1 1_1 fusion-flex-column\" style=\"--awb-padding-top:72px;--awb-padding-right:72px;--awb-padding-left:72px;--awb-overflow:hidden;--awb-bg-size:cover;--awb-border-radius:24px 24px 24px 24px;--awb-width-large:100%;--awb-margin-top-large:0px;--awb-spacing-right-large:0%;--awb-margin-bottom-large:0px;--awb-spacing-left-large:0%;--awb-width-medium:100%;--awb-order-medium:0;--awb-spacing-right-medium:0%;--awb-spacing-left-medium:0%;--awb-width-small:100%;--awb-order-small:0;--awb-spacing-right-small:1.92%;--awb-spacing-left-small:1.92%;\"><div class=\"fusion-column-wrapper fusion-column-has-shadow fusion-flex-justify-content-flex-start fusion-content-layout-column\"><div class=\"fusion-title title fusion-title-14 fusion-sep-none fusion-title-center fusion-title-text fusion-title-size-two\" style=\"--awb-text-color:var(--awb-color8);--awb-font-size:48px;\" id=\"process-compatibility\"><h2 class=\"fusion-title-heading title-heading-center\" style=\"font-family:&quot;Plus Jakarta Sans&quot;;font-style:normal;font-weight:700;margin:0;letter-spacing:-0.02em;text-transform:var(--awb-typography1-text-transform);font-size:1em;line-height:1.12em;\">Processing Performance of <span style=\"color: #f25534;\">304 Stainless Steel in Sheet Metal Fabrication<\/span><\/h2><\/div><\/div><\/div><div class=\"fusion-layout-column fusion_builder_column fusion-builder-column-20 fusion_builder_column_1_1 1_1 fusion-flex-column\" style=\"--awb-bg-size:cover;--awb-width-large:100%;--awb-margin-top-large:0px;--awb-spacing-right-large:1.92%;--awb-margin-bottom-large:20px;--awb-spacing-left-large:1.92%;--awb-width-medium:100%;--awb-order-medium:0;--awb-spacing-right-medium:1.92%;--awb-spacing-left-medium:1.92%;--awb-width-small:100%;--awb-order-small:0;--awb-spacing-right-small:1.92%;--awb-spacing-left-small:1.92%;\"><div class=\"fusion-column-wrapper fusion-column-has-shadow fusion-flex-justify-content-flex-start fusion-content-layout-column\"><div class=\"fusion-text fusion-text-10\"><p><strong data-start=\"130\" data-end=\"153\">304 stainless steel<\/strong> performs exceptionally well in the <strong data-start=\"189\" data-end=\"225\">sheet metal fabrication industry<\/strong>, which is why it has become one of the most commonly used materials in many factories. That said, in actual production, some <strong data-start=\"351\" data-end=\"383\">process-specific adjustments<\/strong> are still needed to achieve stable results.<\/p>\n<\/div><div class=\"fusion-text fusion-text-11\"><p><strong>Common Fabrication Processes for 304 Stainless Steel and Key Considerations<\/strong><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"table-2\">\n<table width=\"100%\">\n<thead>\n<tr>\n<th align=\"left\">Process<\/th>\n<th align=\"left\">Processing Performance<\/th>\n<th align=\"left\">Common Issues<\/th>\n<th align=\"left\">Key Control Points<\/th>\n<\/tr>\n<\/thead>\n<tbody>\n<tr>\n<td align=\"left\"><strong>Laser cutting<\/strong><\/td>\n<td align=\"left\">Stable cut quality<\/td>\n<td align=\"left\">Heat-affected zone, dross buildup<\/td>\n<td align=\"left\">Optimize gas selection and cutting parameters<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td align=\"left\"><strong>Bending<\/strong><\/td>\n<td align=\"left\">Noticeable springback<\/td>\n<td align=\"left\">Dimensional deviation, cracking<\/td>\n<td align=\"left\">Apply die compensation and control the bend radius<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td align=\"left\"><strong>Stamping<\/strong><\/td>\n<td align=\"left\">Good ductility<\/td>\n<td align=\"left\">Work hardening, wrinkling<\/td>\n<td align=\"left\">Control lubrication conditions; intermediate annealing may be needed in some cases<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td align=\"left\"><strong>Welding<\/strong><\/td>\n<td align=\"left\">Compatible with a wide range of processes<\/td>\n<td align=\"left\">Post-weld discoloration, heat-affected zone issues<\/td>\n<td align=\"left\">Control heat input and use appropriate post-weld treatment<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td align=\"left\"><strong>Grinding and polishing<\/strong><\/td>\n<td align=\"left\">Well suited to appearance parts<\/td>\n<td align=\"left\">Uneven surface finish, inconsistent grain pattern<\/td>\n<td align=\"left\">Control surface quality in earlier processing steps<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td align=\"left\"><strong>Surface protection<\/strong><\/td>\n<td align=\"left\">Can support a wide range of finishes<\/td>\n<td align=\"left\">Scratches, contamination<\/td>\n<td align=\"left\">Use protective film and standardized handling procedures<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n<\/div>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><div class=\"fusion-fullwidth fullwidth-box fusion-builder-row-8 fusion-flex-container has-pattern-background has-mask-background nonhundred-percent-fullwidth non-hundred-percent-height-scrolling fusion-custom-z-index\" style=\"--awb-border-radius-top-left:0px;--awb-border-radius-top-right:0px;--awb-border-radius-bottom-right:0px;--awb-border-radius-bottom-left:0px;--awb-z-index:1;--awb-flex-wrap:wrap;\" id=\"st304-grade-selection\" ><div class=\"fusion-builder-row fusion-row fusion-flex-align-items-flex-start fusion-flex-content-wrap\" style=\"max-width:1248px;margin-left: calc(-4% \/ 2 );margin-right: calc(-4% \/ 2 );\"><div class=\"fusion-layout-column fusion_builder_column fusion-builder-column-21 fusion_builder_column_1_1 1_1 fusion-flex-column\" style=\"--awb-bg-size:cover;--awb-width-large:100%;--awb-margin-top-large:0px;--awb-spacing-right-large:1.92%;--awb-margin-bottom-large:20px;--awb-spacing-left-large:1.92%;--awb-width-medium:100%;--awb-order-medium:0;--awb-spacing-right-medium:1.92%;--awb-spacing-left-medium:1.92%;--awb-width-small:100%;--awb-order-small:0;--awb-spacing-right-small:1.92%;--awb-spacing-left-small:1.92%;\"><div class=\"fusion-column-wrapper fusion-column-has-shadow fusion-flex-justify-content-flex-start fusion-content-layout-column\"><div class=\"fusion-title title fusion-title-15 fusion-sep-none fusion-title-center fusion-title-text fusion-title-size-two\" style=\"--awb-font-size:48px;\" id=\"industry-applications\"><h2 class=\"fusion-title-heading title-heading-center\" style=\"margin:0;font-size:1em;\">How to Choose Between 304, 304L, 201, and 316 Stainless Steel<\/h2><\/div><\/div><\/div><div class=\"fusion-layout-column fusion_builder_column fusion-builder-column-22 fusion_builder_column_1_1 1_1 fusion-flex-column\" style=\"--awb-bg-size:cover;--awb-width-large:100%;--awb-margin-top-large:0px;--awb-spacing-right-large:1.92%;--awb-margin-bottom-large:20px;--awb-spacing-left-large:1.92%;--awb-width-medium:100%;--awb-order-medium:0;--awb-spacing-right-medium:1.92%;--awb-spacing-left-medium:1.92%;--awb-width-small:100%;--awb-order-small:0;--awb-spacing-right-small:1.92%;--awb-spacing-left-small:1.92%;\"><div class=\"fusion-column-wrapper fusion-column-has-shadow fusion-flex-justify-content-flex-start fusion-content-layout-column\"><div class=\"fusion-text fusion-text-12\"><p>When selecting a stainless steel grade, it is often necessary to compare <strong data-start=\"192\" data-end=\"199\">304<\/strong> with other similar options. Understanding the differences between these materials can help you choose the grade that best fits your application.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"table-2\">\n<table width=\"100%\">\n<thead>\n<tr>\n<th align=\"left\">Material<\/th>\n<th align=\"left\">Corrosion Resistance<\/th>\n<th align=\"left\">Formability<\/th>\n<th align=\"left\">Weldability<\/th>\n<th align=\"left\">Cost Level<\/th>\n<th align=\"left\">Typical Applications<\/th>\n<\/tr>\n<\/thead>\n<tbody>\n<tr>\n<td align=\"left\"><strong>304<\/strong><\/td>\n<td align=\"left\">Good in oxidizing environments<\/td>\n<td align=\"left\">Excellent<\/td>\n<td align=\"left\">Excellent<\/td>\n<td align=\"left\">Medium<\/td>\n<td align=\"left\">Food equipment, architectural decoration, general industrial use<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td align=\"left\"><strong>304L<\/strong><\/td>\n<td align=\"left\">Good, with better post-weld corrosion resistance<\/td>\n<td align=\"left\">Excellent<\/td>\n<td align=\"left\">Excellent<\/td>\n<td align=\"left\">Slightly higher<\/td>\n<td align=\"left\">Welded structures, especially in corrosive environments<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td align=\"left\"><strong>201<\/strong><\/td>\n<td align=\"left\">Lower corrosion resistance, more prone to rusting<\/td>\n<td align=\"left\">Moderate<\/td>\n<td align=\"left\">Moderate<\/td>\n<td align=\"left\">Lower<\/td>\n<td align=\"left\">Low-cost decorative parts, short-life products<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td align=\"left\"><strong>316 \/ 316L<\/strong><\/td>\n<td align=\"left\"><strong>Excellent<\/strong>, especially in chloride-containing environments<\/td>\n<td align=\"left\">Excellent<\/td>\n<td align=\"left\">Excellent<\/td>\n<td align=\"left\">Higher<\/td>\n<td align=\"left\">Marine environments, chemical equipment, medical devices<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n<\/div>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><div class=\"fusion-fullwidth fullwidth-box fusion-builder-row-9 fusion-flex-container has-pattern-background has-mask-background nonhundred-percent-fullwidth non-hundred-percent-height-scrolling fusion-custom-z-index\" style=\"--awb-border-radius-top-left:0px;--awb-border-radius-top-right:0px;--awb-border-radius-bottom-right:0px;--awb-border-radius-bottom-left:0px;--awb-z-index:1;--awb-margin-top:80px;--awb-flex-wrap:wrap;\" id=\"st304-applications\" ><div class=\"fusion-builder-row fusion-row fusion-flex-align-items-flex-start fusion-flex-content-wrap\" style=\"max-width:1248px;margin-left: calc(-4% \/ 2 );margin-right: calc(-4% \/ 2 );\"><div class=\"fusion-layout-column fusion_builder_column fusion-builder-column-23 fusion_builder_column_1_1 1_1 fusion-flex-column\" style=\"--awb-bg-size:cover;--awb-width-large:100%;--awb-margin-top-large:0px;--awb-spacing-right-large:1.92%;--awb-margin-bottom-large:20px;--awb-spacing-left-large:1.92%;--awb-width-medium:100%;--awb-order-medium:0;--awb-spacing-right-medium:1.92%;--awb-spacing-left-medium:1.92%;--awb-width-small:100%;--awb-order-small:0;--awb-spacing-right-small:1.92%;--awb-spacing-left-small:1.92%;\"><div class=\"fusion-column-wrapper fusion-column-has-shadow fusion-flex-justify-content-flex-start fusion-content-layout-column\"><div class=\"fusion-title title fusion-title-16 fusion-sep-none fusion-title-text fusion-title-size-two\" style=\"--awb-font-size:48px;\" id=\"cost\"><h2 class=\"fusion-title-heading title-heading-left\" style=\"margin:0;font-size:1em;\">Typical Applications for <span style=\"color: #f25534;\">304 Stainless Steel<\/span><\/h2><\/div><\/div><\/div><div class=\"fusion-layout-column fusion_builder_column fusion-builder-column-24 fusion_builder_column_1_1 1_1 fusion-flex-column\" style=\"--awb-bg-size:cover;--awb-width-large:100%;--awb-margin-top-large:0px;--awb-spacing-right-large:1.92%;--awb-margin-bottom-large:20px;--awb-spacing-left-large:1.92%;--awb-width-medium:100%;--awb-order-medium:0;--awb-spacing-right-medium:1.92%;--awb-spacing-left-medium:1.92%;--awb-width-small:100%;--awb-order-small:0;--awb-spacing-right-small:1.92%;--awb-spacing-left-small:1.92%;\"><div class=\"fusion-column-wrapper fusion-column-has-shadow fusion-flex-justify-content-flex-start fusion-content-layout-column\"><div class=\"fusion-text fusion-text-13\"><p><strong data-start=\"1153\" data-end=\"1176\">304 stainless steel<\/strong> is used in a very wide range of applications. At one end of the spectrum, it can be found in aerospace-related equipment; at the other, it is widely used in furniture and appliance housings. In addition to its <strong data-start=\"1387\" data-end=\"1416\">good corrosion resistance<\/strong>, it is also <strong data-start=\"1429\" data-end=\"1446\">easy to clean<\/strong>. In most cases, dirt can be removed with a simple wipe, although stubborn stains may need to be softened first. For this reason, <strong data-start=\"1576\" data-end=\"1599\">304 stainless steel<\/strong> is widely used across many industries.<\/p>\n<\/div><div class=\"fusion-title title fusion-title-17 fusion-sep-none fusion-title-text fusion-title-size-three\" style=\"--awb-font-size:30px;\"><h3 class=\"fusion-title-heading title-heading-left\" style=\"margin:0;font-size:1em;\">Common Applications and Material Selection Guidance for 304 Stainless Steel<\/h3><\/div>\n<div class=\"table-2\">\n<table width=\"100%\">\n<thead>\n<tr>\n<th align=\"left\">Application<\/th>\n<th align=\"left\">Is 304 Commonly Used?<\/th>\n<th align=\"left\">Main Reason<\/th>\n<th align=\"left\">Key Considerations<\/th>\n<\/tr>\n<\/thead>\n<tbody>\n<tr>\n<td align=\"left\">Appliance housings and internal parts<\/td>\n<td align=\"left\">Yes<\/td>\n<td align=\"left\">Corrosion resistance, easy cleaning, attractive appearance<\/td>\n<td align=\"left\">Pay attention to surface scratch protection<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td align=\"left\">Food processing equipment<\/td>\n<td align=\"left\">Yes<\/td>\n<td align=\"left\">Food-safe, hygienic, easy to clean<\/td>\n<td align=\"left\">Confirm compliance with <strong>GB 4806.9<\/strong> or the applicable food-contact standard<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td align=\"left\">Medical devices (<strong>non-implant<\/strong>)<\/td>\n<td align=\"left\">Yes<\/td>\n<td align=\"left\">Sterilization resistance, non-magnetic behavior, easy cleaning<\/td>\n<td align=\"left\"><strong>316L<\/strong> should be used for implant applications<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td align=\"left\">Architectural decoration<\/td>\n<td align=\"left\">Yes<\/td>\n<td align=\"left\">Weather resistance, appearance, easy maintenance<\/td>\n<td align=\"left\">In coastal environments, chloride exposure should be evaluated carefully<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td align=\"left\">Industrial enclosures and support frames<\/td>\n<td align=\"left\">Yes<\/td>\n<td align=\"left\">Well-balanced properties and stable supply<\/td>\n<td align=\"left\">If higher strength is required, cold working may be considered<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td align=\"left\">Water treatment equipment<\/td>\n<td align=\"left\">Yes<\/td>\n<td align=\"left\">Resistant to neutral media and water vapor<\/td>\n<td align=\"left\">In high-chloride environments, a higher-grade material may be needed<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n<\/div>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><div class=\"fusion-fullwidth fullwidth-box fusion-builder-row-10 fusion-flex-container has-mask-background nonhundred-percent-fullwidth non-hundred-percent-height-scrolling fusion-custom-z-index\" style=\"--awb-border-radius-top-left:0px;--awb-border-radius-top-right:0px;--awb-border-radius-bottom-right:0px;--awb-border-radius-bottom-left:0px;--awb-z-index:1;--awb-padding-top:80px;--awb-padding-bottom:80px;--awb-flex-wrap:wrap;\" id=\"st304-misconceptions\" ><div class=\"awb-background-mask\" style=\"background-image:  url(data:image\/svg+xml;utf8,%3Csvg%20width%3D%221920%22%20height%3D%22954%22%20fill%3D%22none%22%20xmlns%3D%22http%3A%2F%2Fwww.w3.org%2F2000%2Fsvg%22%3E%3Cpath%20fill-rule%3D%22evenodd%22%20clip-rule%3D%22evenodd%22%20d%3D%22M1920%200h-832.2S1252%20176.5%201252%20477s-164.2%20477-164.2%20477H1920V0z%22%20fill%3D%22rgba%2833%2C126%2C232%2C0.05%29%22%2F%3E%3C%2Fsvg%3E);opacity: 1 ;mix-blend-mode:normal;\"><\/div><div class=\"fusion-builder-row fusion-row fusion-flex-align-items-flex-start fusion-flex-content-wrap\" style=\"max-width:1260px;margin-left: calc(-5% \/ 2 );margin-right: calc(-5% \/ 2 );\"><div class=\"fusion-layout-column fusion_builder_column fusion-builder-column-25 fusion_builder_column_2_5 2_5 fusion-flex-column\" style=\"--awb-padding-right:10px;--awb-bg-size:cover;--awb-width-large:40%;--awb-margin-top-large:0px;--awb-spacing-right-large:5.9375%;--awb-margin-bottom-large:0px;--awb-spacing-left-large:5.9375%;--awb-width-medium:40%;--awb-order-medium:0;--awb-spacing-right-medium:5.9375%;--awb-spacing-left-medium:5.9375%;--awb-width-small:100%;--awb-order-small:0;--awb-spacing-right-small:2.375%;--awb-margin-bottom-small:60px;--awb-spacing-left-small:2.375%;\"><div class=\"fusion-column-wrapper fusion-column-has-shadow fusion-flex-justify-content-flex-start fusion-content-layout-column\"><div class=\"fusion-title title fusion-title-18 fusion-sep-none fusion-title-text fusion-title-size-two fusion-animated\" style=\"--awb-text-color:#0f0f0f;--awb-font-size:30px;--awb-animation-color:#ededed;\" data-animationType=\"revealInLeft\" data-animationDuration=\"1.5\" data-animationDelay=\"0.5\" data-animationOffset=\"top-into-view\" id=\"faqs\"><h2 class=\"fusion-title-heading title-heading-left\" style=\"font-family:&quot;Mulish&quot;;font-style:normal;font-weight:700;margin:0;letter-spacing:-0.015em;text-transform:capitalize;font-size:1em;line-height:1.3;\">Common Misconceptions About<mark class=\"fusion-highlight custom-textcolor highlight1 awb-highlight-marker\" style=\"--awb-color:#f6ae03;--awb-text-color:#0f0f0f;\"> 304 Stainless Steel<\/mark>&nbsp;<\/h2><\/div><div class=\"fusion-separator fusion-full-width-sep\" style=\"align-self: center;margin-left: auto;margin-right: auto;margin-top:25px;margin-bottom:40px;width:100%;\"><div class=\"fusion-separator-border sep-single sep-solid\" style=\"--awb-height:20px;--awb-amount:20px;--awb-sep-color:var(--awb-color5);border-color:var(--awb-color5);border-top-width:3px;\"><\/div><\/div><div class=\"fusion-text fusion-text-14\"><p>In real-world applications, there are several common misunderstandings about <strong data-start=\"182\" data-end=\"205\">304 stainless steel<\/strong>. Clarifying these points can help ensure the material is used more accurately and effectively.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div><div class=\"fusion-layout-column fusion_builder_column fusion-builder-column-26 fusion_builder_column_3_5 3_5 fusion-flex-column fusion-animated\" style=\"--awb-bg-position:center bottom;--awb-bg-size:;--awb-width-large:60%;--awb-margin-top-large:0px;--awb-spacing-right-large:3.9583333333333%;--awb-margin-bottom-large:0px;--awb-spacing-left-large:3.9583333333333%;--awb-width-medium:60%;--awb-order-medium:0;--awb-spacing-right-medium:3.9583333333333%;--awb-spacing-left-medium:3.9583333333333%;--awb-width-small:100%;--awb-order-small:0;--awb-spacing-right-small:2.375%;--awb-spacing-left-small:2.375%;\" data-animationType=\"fadeInUp\" data-animationDuration=\"1.5\" data-animationOffset=\"top-into-view\"><div class=\"fusion-column-wrapper fusion-column-has-shadow fusion-flex-justify-content-flex-start fusion-content-layout-column\"><div class=\"accordian fusion-accordian\" style=\"--awb-border-size:1px;--awb-icon-size:14px;--awb-content-font-size:17px;--awb-content-letter-spacing:0.010em;--awb-content-text-transform:var(--awb-typography4-text-transform);--awb-content-line-height:1.6;--awb-icon-alignment:left;--awb-hover-color:rgba(255,143,92,0.05);--awb-border-color:rgba(79,134,216,0.2);--awb-background-color:rgba(79,134,216,0.05);--awb-divider-color:rgba(79,134,216,0.2);--awb-divider-hover-color:#4e85d8;--awb-icon-color:#191919;--awb-title-color:#191919;--awb-content-color:#424242;--awb-icon-box-color:rgba(79,134,216,0.1);--awb-toggle-hover-accent-color:#4e85d8;--awb-toggle-active-accent-color:#ff915e;--awb-title-font-family:&quot;Figtree&quot;;--awb-title-font-weight:600;--awb-title-font-style:normal;--awb-title-font-size:20px;--awb-title-letter-spacing:0.010em;--awb-title-line-height:1.4;--awb-title-text-transform:var(--awb-typography1-text-transform);--awb-content-font-family:&quot;Figtree&quot;;--awb-content-font-style:normal;--awb-content-font-weight:400;\"><div class=\"panel-group fusion-toggle-icon-boxed\" id=\"accordion-2259-1\"><div class=\"fusion-panel panel-default panel-6c1b11060186868c0 fusion-toggle-no-divider fusion-toggle-boxed-mode\"><div class=\"panel-heading\"><h3 class=\"panel-title toggle\" id=\"toggle_6c1b11060186868c0\"><a aria-expanded=\"false\" aria-controls=\"6c1b11060186868c0\" role=\"button\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" data-target=\"#6c1b11060186868c0\" href=\"#6c1b11060186868c0\"><span class=\"fusion-toggle-icon-wrapper\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><i class=\"fa-fusion-box active-icon fa-caret-down fas\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><\/i><i class=\"fa-fusion-box inactive-icon fa-caret-right fas\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><\/i><\/span><span class=\"fusion-toggle-heading\">304 Never Rusts<\/span><\/a><\/h3><\/div><div id=\"6c1b11060186868c0\" class=\"panel-collapse collapse \" aria-labelledby=\"toggle_6c1b11060186868c0\"><div class=\"panel-body toggle-content fusion-clearfix\">\n<p>This is one of the most common misunderstandings. <strong data-start=\"393\" data-end=\"416\">304 stainless steel<\/strong> is called \u201cstainless\u201d because it offers much better corrosion resistance than ordinary steel, <strong data-start=\"511\" data-end=\"579\">not because it is completely immune to rust under all conditions<\/strong>. In certain environments\u2014such as those involving <strong data-start=\"629\" data-end=\"695\">high chloride exposure, strong acids, or elevated temperatures<\/strong>\u2014304 can still suffer from rusting, pitting, or even general corrosion. The correct understanding is that <strong data-start=\"801\" data-end=\"857\">304 performs very well in most standard environments<\/strong>, but it should still be selected with care for harsher service conditions.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div><div class=\"fusion-panel panel-default panel-277d5c0c284f6a4ea fusion-toggle-no-divider fusion-toggle-boxed-mode\"><div class=\"panel-heading\"><h3 class=\"panel-title toggle\" id=\"toggle_277d5c0c284f6a4ea\"><a aria-expanded=\"false\" aria-controls=\"277d5c0c284f6a4ea\" role=\"button\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" data-target=\"#277d5c0c284f6a4ea\" href=\"#277d5c0c284f6a4ea\"><span class=\"fusion-toggle-icon-wrapper\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><i class=\"fa-fusion-box active-icon fa-caret-down fas\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><\/i><i class=\"fa-fusion-box inactive-icon fa-caret-right fas\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><\/i><\/span><span class=\"fusion-toggle-heading\">If It Is Magnetic, It Cannot Be 304<\/span><\/a><\/h3><\/div><div id=\"277d5c0c284f6a4ea\" class=\"panel-collapse collapse \" aria-labelledby=\"toggle_277d5c0c284f6a4ea\"><div class=\"panel-body toggle-content fusion-clearfix\">\n<p>This misconception comes from a misunderstanding of the magnetic behavior of <strong data-start=\"1072\" data-end=\"1102\">austenitic stainless steel<\/strong>. In the annealed condition, <strong data-start=\"1131\" data-end=\"1138\">304<\/strong> is generally non-magnetic or only slightly magnetic. However, after <strong data-start=\"1207\" data-end=\"1223\">cold working<\/strong>\u2014such as bending or drawing\u2014some of the austenite can transform into martensite, which may cause the material to become slightly magnetic. For that reason, a magnet alone should <strong data-start=\"1401\" data-end=\"1408\">not<\/strong> be used to determine whether a material is 304. The correct way to verify the grade is through <strong data-start=\"1504\" data-end=\"1537\">chemical composition analysis<\/strong> or <strong data-start=\"1541\" data-end=\"1566\">spectrometric testing<\/strong>.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div><div class=\"fusion-panel panel-default panel-78efa015f419c954f fusion-toggle-no-divider fusion-toggle-boxed-mode\"><div class=\"panel-heading\"><h3 class=\"panel-title toggle\" id=\"toggle_78efa015f419c954f\"><a aria-expanded=\"false\" aria-controls=\"78efa015f419c954f\" role=\"button\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" data-target=\"#78efa015f419c954f\" href=\"#78efa015f419c954f\"><span class=\"fusion-toggle-icon-wrapper\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><i class=\"fa-fusion-box active-icon fa-caret-down fas\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><\/i><i class=\"fa-fusion-box inactive-icon fa-caret-right fas\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><\/i><\/span><span class=\"fusion-toggle-heading\">304 Is Always Suitable for All Food and Humid Environments<\/span><\/a><\/h3><\/div><div id=\"78efa015f419c954f\" class=\"panel-collapse collapse \" aria-labelledby=\"toggle_78efa015f419c954f\"><div class=\"panel-body toggle-content fusion-clearfix\">\n<p>Although <strong data-start=\"1662\" data-end=\"1685\">304 stainless steel<\/strong> meets food-contact requirements and performs well in many food-processing applications, that does <strong data-start=\"1784\" data-end=\"1791\">not<\/strong> mean it is suitable for every food-related or humid environment. High-salt foods, frequent exposure to chlorine-based disinfectants, and marine climates can all create conditions that may corrode 304. In these cases, it may be necessary to evaluate whether <strong data-start=\"2049\" data-end=\"2056\">316<\/strong> is a better option or whether additional protective measures are needed.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div><div class=\"fusion-panel panel-default panel-17c5eb6c5def56981 fusion-toggle-no-divider fusion-toggle-boxed-mode\"><div class=\"panel-heading\"><h3 class=\"panel-title toggle\" id=\"toggle_17c5eb6c5def56981\"><a aria-expanded=\"false\" aria-controls=\"17c5eb6c5def56981\" role=\"button\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" data-target=\"#17c5eb6c5def56981\" href=\"#17c5eb6c5def56981\"><span class=\"fusion-toggle-icon-wrapper\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><i class=\"fa-fusion-box active-icon fa-caret-down fas\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><\/i><i class=\"fa-fusion-box inactive-icon fa-caret-right fas\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><\/i><\/span><span class=\"fusion-toggle-heading\">304 and 304L Are Basically the Same<\/span><\/a><\/h3><\/div><div id=\"17c5eb6c5def56981\" class=\"panel-collapse collapse \" aria-labelledby=\"toggle_17c5eb6c5def56981\"><div class=\"panel-body toggle-content fusion-clearfix\">\n<p>The main difference between <strong data-start=\"2220\" data-end=\"2227\">304<\/strong> and <strong data-start=\"2232\" data-end=\"2240\">304L<\/strong> is the carbon content, and although that may seem minor, it can make a meaningful difference in certain applications. The lower carbon content of <strong data-start=\"2387\" data-end=\"2395\">304L<\/strong> improves corrosion resistance after welding, making it especially suitable for projects involving <strong data-start=\"2494\" data-end=\"2515\">extensive welding<\/strong> or service in <strong data-start=\"2530\" data-end=\"2556\">corrosive environments<\/strong>. Because of this, the two grades should <strong data-start=\"2597\" data-end=\"2604\">not<\/strong> be treated as fully interchangeable in every case.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div><div class=\"fusion-panel panel-default panel-dd9b32632d40be180 fusion-toggle-no-divider fusion-toggle-boxed-mode\"><div class=\"panel-heading\"><h3 class=\"panel-title toggle\" id=\"toggle_dd9b32632d40be180\"><a aria-expanded=\"false\" aria-controls=\"dd9b32632d40be180\" role=\"button\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" data-target=\"#dd9b32632d40be180\" href=\"#dd9b32632d40be180\"><span class=\"fusion-toggle-icon-wrapper\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><i class=\"fa-fusion-box active-icon fa-caret-down fas\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><\/i><i class=\"fa-fusion-box inactive-icon fa-caret-right fas\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><\/i><\/span><span class=\"fusion-toggle-heading\">If the Material Is Correct, Processing Problems Will Not Happen<\/span><\/a><\/h3><\/div><div id=\"dd9b32632d40be180\" class=\"panel-collapse collapse \" aria-labelledby=\"toggle_dd9b32632d40be180\"><div class=\"panel-body toggle-content fusion-clearfix\">\n<p>Even if the right material has been selected, problems can still occur if the <strong data-start=\"2824\" data-end=\"2847\">fabrication process<\/strong> is not properly controlled. For example, incorrect welding parameters may lead to <strong data-start=\"2930\" data-end=\"2973\">sensitization in the heat-affected zone<\/strong>; poor surface protection may result in <strong data-start=\"3013\" data-end=\"3039\">scratches or corrosion<\/strong>; and improper bending parameters may cause <strong data-start=\"3083\" data-end=\"3119\">cracking or excessive springback<\/strong>. In other words, <strong data-start=\"3137\" data-end=\"3182\">material selection is only the first step<\/strong>\u2014the right processing method matters just as much.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"","protected":false},"author":1,"featured_media":0,"parent":2186,"menu_order":0,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","template":"100-width.php","meta":{"_acf_changed":false,"footnotes":""},"class_list":["post-2259","page","type-page","status-publish","hentry"],"acf":[],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/ceshi.baoxuanmetal.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/2259","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/ceshi.baoxuanmetal.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/ceshi.baoxuanmetal.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/page"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/ceshi.baoxuanmetal.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/1"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/ceshi.baoxuanmetal.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=2259"}],"version-history":[{"count":15,"href":"https:\/\/ceshi.baoxuanmetal.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/2259\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":6709,"href":"https:\/\/ceshi.baoxuanmetal.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/2259\/revisions\/6709"}],"up":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/ceshi.baoxuanmetal.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/2186"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/ceshi.baoxuanmetal.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=2259"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}