304 Stainless Steel Flat Bar

The 304 stainless steel flat bar is a premium austenitic metal composed of 18% chromium and 8% nickel, commonly known as 18-8 stainless steel. As the most widely used stainless steel flat bar in its family, it combines exceptional mechanical properties with outstanding corrosion resistance, making it a versatile choice for various applications.

Technical Characteristics

The 304 stainless steel flat bar offers these distinctive features:

Material Composition:

• 18% Chromium
• 8% Nickel
• Standard carbon content (higher than 304L grade)

Performance Properties:

• Superior corrosion resistance
• Excellent mechanical properties
• Non-magnetic in annealed condition
• Enhanced strength through cold working
• Remarkable resistance to various corrosive environments

Processing and Fabrication

When working with 304 stainless steel flat bar:

• Heat treatment is not suitable for hardening
• Cold working is the preferred method for increasing strength
• Welding considerations are important for heavy sections
• Service temperatures up to 800°F are acceptable
• Post-weld heat treatment may be required in some cases

Common Applications

This versatile stainless steel flat bar excels in various industries:

Food and Beverage:

• Food processing equipment
• Kitchen benches
• Kitchen troughs
• Sanitary installations

Industrial Uses:

• Chemical containers
• Heat exchangers
• Architectural molding
• Water filtration screens

Specialized Applications:

• Automotive components
• Aerospace equipment
• Dying industry equipment

Comparison with 304L Grade

While both 304 and 304L stainless steel flat bar share many characteristics, key differences include:

• 304L has lower carbon content (0.030% max)
• 304L provides better welding properties
• 304L prevents harmful precipitation during welding
• 304L is preferred for heavy welded sections
• Both grades offer similar corrosion resistance

This comprehensive range of properties makes the 304 stainless steel flat bar an excellent choice for applications requiring both strength and corrosion resistance in various industrial and commercial settings.