Metals & alloys · Ferrous alloys
AISI 304 stainless steel
The general-purpose austenitic stainless benchmark, combining formability, weldability and atmospheric corrosion resistance at moderate cost.
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01
Overview
- Material class
- Metals & alloys
- Category
- Ferrous alloys
- Family
- Stainless Steel
- Product forms
- Sheet/plate, Bar/rod
Composition
| Constituent | Min | Max | Typical | Note |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| C | 0.08 | 0.05 | ||
| Cr | 18 | 20 | 18.5 | |
| Ni | 8 | 10.5 | 8.5 | |
| Mn | 2 | 1.5 | ||
| Si | 1 | 0.5 | ||
| N | 0.1 | 0.05 | ||
| Fe | Balance |
02
Properties and conditions
Engineering properties
| Property | Value | Unit | Condition |
|---|---|---|---|
| Density | 8.0 | g/cm³ | Representative; verify product form and condition |
| Elastic modulus | 193 | GPa | Representative; verify product form and condition |
| Thermal conductivity | 16.2 | W/m·K | Representative; verify product form and condition |
| Yield strength | ≥205 | MPa | annealed sheet/plate typical minimum |
| Tensile strength | ≥515 | MPa | annealed typical minimum |
| Elongation | ≥40 | % | annealed; product dependent |
Conditions
Cold worked
Strengthened by cold deformation; degree of reduction must be stated.
Solution annealed
Austenitic solution-annealed reference condition.
03
Processing and use
Processing
- Cold work raises strength and can increase magnetic response.
- Use low heat input and suitable cleaning/passivation practices after fabrication.
Applications
- Process equipment
- Architectural components
- Food and beverage equipment
- General stainless fabrication
Selection considerations
- Not preferred for sustained chloride exposure where pitting or SCC is credible.
- Use 304L for welded structures when sensitization control is important.
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04
Standards and related materials
Standards and designations
| System | Designation | Note |
|---|---|---|
| UNS | S30400 | |
| EN | 1.4301 / X5CrNi18-10 | |
| ASTM | A240/A276/A312 | depending product form |
Other names
- AISI 304
05
Sources and context
Sources
- Outokumpu Core range data sheetExisting reference
Confirm the applicable specification, product form and condition before using values for design or procurement.
Supply and sustainability
One of the most widely stocked stainless grades in sheet, plate, tube, bar and fittings.
High recycled content is common; long service life and high scrap value support circular use.
Strategic context
Established engineering material with documented processing–performance relationships.