Stainless Steel 304/304L

304 Guide: Properties, Applications and Design Considerations

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What is 304 Stainless Steel?

304 is the most common stainless steel used globally. It is chosen for its excellent corrosion resistance and value for money.

304 and other austenitic steels also offer a balance of strength and workability. 

304L is the extra low carbon form of 304 which has improved resistance to pitting and crevice corrosion in chloride bearing environments.

The most common form of 304 is 18/8 – which contains 18% chromium and 8% nickel.

304 Machinability

Stainless steel 304 has good machinability. We recommend the following when machining 304:

• Keep cutting edges sharp as dull edges cause excess work hardening
• Light cuts but deep enough to prevent work hardening by riding on the surface of the material
• Use of chip breakers to assist in ensuring swarf remains clear of the work
• Use of coolants and lubricants in large quantities due to low thermal conductivity which can result in heat concentrating at the cutting edges

You may also see 304 referred to as:

• 18/8 
• 1.4301/304
• 1.4307/304L
• S30400
• 304S15
• 304S16
• 304S31
• EN58E
• S11

Industry Examples: Food processing | Architecture | Pharmaceutical

Typical Components & Applications: Kitchen & food processing equipment | Buildings & décor | Tanks & containers | Water tubing | Chemical containers | Heat exchangers | Domestic tools & utensils | Architectural panelling, trim & railings