A Guide to 304 Stainless Steel

by | Apr 14, 2015 | Business

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From buildings to useful products, stainless steel has been around since Brearley found the right variation of alloys 102 year ago. There are various types of stainless steel, ranging from 18-8 to type 440c. Of all the different grades of stainless steel, the most basic and commonly used is 304 stainless steel.

The Elements That Go Into 304 Stainless Steel

Type 304 stainless steel is a basic alloy. It is an austenitic (also known as gamma-phase iron). It is a stainless steel alloy that consists of a minimum of 18% chromium and 8% nickel, which are both combined with a maximum level of 0.08% carbon. It’s nonmagnetic, which prevents it from hardening under heat treatment. Instead, it is cold-worked in order to obtain the higher tensile strengths which are necessary for to be molded into the myriad items it is used for.

The Benefits of 304 Stainless Steel

The 304 stainless steel resists most oxidizing acids and can fend off all ordinary rusting. On the other hand, it can, and will, tarnish. It is resistant to corrosion from foods, sterilizing solutions, and many other chemicals. As a result, type 304 is the type of material specified the majority of the time a stainless steel is used indoors. Due to its ability to withstand the corrosive properties of so many things, type 304 stainless steel is used for various appliances and cooking utensils. Additionally, is suited for all types of processing equipment, from dairy to slaughter and packing houses. In the industrial fields, it is a critical component of dye tanks, pipelines, fasteners, and other items. Whenever both wear and corrosion resistance is needed, type 304 stainless steel is used.

Where you can Find 304 Stainless Steel

As with any product, there is a wide array of choices for where to purchase type 304 stainless steel. However, none of them are as reputable and respected as Aerotech Alloys. They are a full-line metals distributor with an extensive range of rod and bar. With competitive pricing, unbeatable customer service, and a large inventory, Aerotech Alloys serves customer needs down to the most minute detail.

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