Basic Features of 304 Stainless Steel Rods
Standard stainless steel is grade 304, sometimes referred to as “18/8” stainless steel due to its chemical makeup. Here, 18/8 denotes that it is made up of 8% nickel and 18% chromium. The most adaptable and extensively used material, notwithstanding the large range of alternatives, is grade 304 stainless steel. The material also possesses superior forming and welding characteristics. Because of its well-balanced austenitic structure, stainless steel type 304 can be deep-drawn without annealing. Numerous chemical components, including carbon, manganese, silicon, phosphorus, sulphur, chromium, nickel, iron, and nitrogen, are present in grade 304. 304 Stainless Steel Rods and bars benefit from superior mechanical qualities provided by all of these components.
GENERAL PROPERTIES OF 304 STAINLESS STEEL RODS
Because the raw material, stainless steel 304, has exceptional welding properties, rods and bars offer the same features. Additionally, narrow portions do not require post-weld annealing. As a result, these bars and rods are suited for use in heavy gauge components and can withstand high temperatures. Below cryogenic temperatures, the austenitic structure of stainless steel 304 exhibits excellent toughness.
Good stress resistance, elongation, and tensile strength are all characteristics of stainless steel 304. At temperatures of more than 60°C, 304 Stainless Steel Rods, and bars are resistant to stress corrosion cracking. The stainless steel 304 rods and bars exhibit exceptional oxidation resistance in the 870°C to 925°C temperature range.
APPLICATIONS OF 304 SS RODS AND BARS
The stainless steel grade 304 can be easily roll-formed and braked into a variety of components that are suited for industrial application. These stainless steel 304 rods and bars are ideal for transportation, sanitary ware, tubing, and architectural paneling. The grade is useful in the creation of hollowware, saucepans, and sinks. Additionally, stainless steel 304 rods and bars are used in the dairy business and in the pharmaceutical industry.
ALTERNATIVE GRADES TO GRADE 304
The high work-hardening grade 301L is beneficial for roll- and stretch-forming components. An alternate grade that is suited for bolts, screws, and rivets is 302HQ, which has a low work-hardening capacity. The ideal substitute grade for stainless steel grade 304 is grade 303 due to its superior machining capabilities and lower level of corrosion resistance. In chloride-containing solutions, stainless steel 316 exhibits great resistance to pitting and crevice corrosion.