Stainless steel types 1.4301 and 1.4307 are also known as grades 304 and 304L respectively. Type 304 is the most versatile and widely used stainless steel. It is still sometimes referred to by its old name 18/8 which is derived from the nominal composition of type 304 being 18% chromium and 8% nickel.
Type 304 stainless steel is an austenitic grade that can be severely deep drawn. This property has resulted in 304 being the dominant grade used in applications like sinks and saucepans.
Type 304L is the low carbon version of 304. It is used in heavy gauge components for improved weldability. Some products such as plate and pipe may be available as “dual certified” material that meets the criteria for both 304 and 304L.
304H, a high carbon content variant, is also available for use at high temperatures.
Property data given in this document is typical for flat rolled products covered by ASTM A240/A240M. ASTM, EN or other standards may cover products sold. It is reasonable to expect specifications in these standards to be similar but not necessarily identical to those given in this datasheet.
ALLOY DESIGNATIONS
Stainless Steel Grade 1.4301/304 also corresponds to the following designations
S30400
304S15
304S16
304S31
EN58E
SUPPLIED FORMS
Sheet
Strip
Tube
Bar
Fittings & Flanges
Pipe
Plate
APPLICATIONS
304 stainless steel is typically used in:
Sinks and splashbacks
Saucepans
Cutlery and flatware
Architectural panelling
Sanitaryware and troughs
Tubing
Brewery, dairy, food and pharmaceutical production equipment
Springs, nuts, bolts and screws
CORROSION RESISTANCE
304 has excellent corrosion resistance in many environments and when in contact with different corrosive media. Pitting and crevice corrosion can occur in environments containing chlorides. Stress corrosion cracking can occur above 60°C.
