The most important characteristic of 304 stainless steel is that its what is known as an austenitic material, which means it is a metallic, non-magnetic iron allotrope with an alloying element. It has a eutectoid point that occurs at 727°C (1,341°F). The austenite allotrope exists at room temperature in stainless steel.

The variety of 304 sheet that Clinton Aluminum has in stock is known as 304L #4 finish stainless steel sheet. Because of its low carbon content, it is generally safe for use in most welding operations common in construction and other industries, as the formation of carbide precipitation that occurs during welding is minimized. 304 also shows excellent rust resistance and low intergranular corrosion. Unless your particular application is going to require stress relief, 304 does not need annealing after the welding has been performed.

304L #4 is also known for its superior machinability and formability. This allows 304 steel to be stamped and deep drawn for a variety of applications, including sinks, saucepans, and other hollowware. Furthermore, its low yield strength and high elongation allow 304 to form all manner of complex shapes. It hardens rapidly, so after shaping it only requires air cooling, an important factor in its affordability and efficiency. If necessary, after spinning or forming it is possible to perform stress relief annealing or full annealing to your specifications.

304 stainless steel is non-magnetic and it offers low electrical and thermal conductivity. It does have a higher corrosion resistance than many other stainless steel alloys. Additionally, its weldability, as mentioned above, lends it to a number of commercial welding methods, including fusion and resistance welding. When forming 304 stainless steel, uniform temperatures are required, between 2300°F and 1700°F. Clinton aluminum offers 304 in thicknesses between 0.0178 and 0.1874 and widths from 48 to 60 inches, all the way up to 144 inches in length.

Another leading feature of 304 alloy is its versatility. It is suitable for a wide range of manufacturing applications, the reason why it is so popular across so many industries. Its resistance to intergranular corrosion, which is normally a byproduct of stress relieving or welding, makes it suitable for products that would otherwise not be able to use stainless steel. Although it can’t be used with heat treatment, the metal can be made both harder and stronger via a cold working process. 304L #4 is one of your best options if faced with a corrosive environment or heat-affected zone.