304H vs 310 Stainless Steel Heat Resistance Analysis

304H vs 310 Stainless Steel: Heat Resistance Analysis

At Gangsteel, a trusted supplier of stainless steel, we offer high-quality SA 240 GR 304H and SA 240 GR 310 plates compliant with ASME SA 240 and ASTM A240 /ASTM A 240/A 240M standards.

304H stainless steel(UNS S30409, AISI 304H, EN 1.4948) is a high-carbon austenitic grade designed for high-temperature strength up to 1500°F (815°C).

310 stainless steel(UNS S31000, AISI 310, EN 1.4845) is a high-chromium, high-nickel austenitic grade for superior heat resistance up to 2000°F (1093°C).

Both are non-magnetic with a density of 8.00 g/cm³. This guide analyzes 304H vs 310 stainless steel in heat resistance, properties, and applications like plat stainless 304 and SA 240 GR 304 pipe. Contact us at admin@gangsteel.com or explore our ASME SA240 Stainless sheet.

Overview of 304H vs 310 Stainless Steel

304Huses high carbon for creep resistance in high-heat environments like boilers.

310relies on high chromium and nickel for oxidation resistance in extreme heat.

310outperforms 304H in heat resistance, but 304H is more cost-effective.

Chemical Composition Comparison

Chromium and nickel content drive heat resistance differences.

310’s higher Cr/Ni provides better heat resistance. See sa240 gr 310h.

Heat Resistance Analysis

304H: Continuous up to 1500°F (815°C); intermittent up to 1600°F (871°C). Scaling at 1200°F (649°C).

310: Continuous up to 2000°F (1093°C) in oxidizing atmospheres; intermittent up to 1900°F (1038°C). Superior scaling resistance.

Analysis: 310 excels in extreme heat due to high Cr/Ni; 304H suits moderate high-temperature non-oxidizing environments. See sa240 gr 310s.

Corrosion Resistance Comparison

304H: Resists mild acids and atmospheric conditions, outperforming SS204 vs SS 304.

310: Excellent oxidation resistance in high-heat; good in carburizing atmospheres.

Performance: 310 is better for heat-induced corrosion; 304H suits general mild corrosion. See sa240 gr 316l for chlorides.

Strength Comparison

304H and 310: Similar strength, but 310’s high Ni/Cr enhances oxidation resistance at high temperatures. See sa240 gr 304.

Temperature Performance

304H: Continuous up to 1500°F (815°C); intermittent up to 1600°F (871°C).

310: Continuous up to 2000°F (1093°C); intermittent up to 1900°F (1038°C).

Performance: 310 outperforms in extreme heat for oxidation resistance.

Weldability Comparison

304H: Fair with ER308H fillers; needs annealing to avoid sensitization.

310: Good with ER310 fillers; higher Cr/Ni improves weld quality.

For welds, see sa240 gr 321.

Applications

304H: Boilers, heat exchangers, power generation.

310: Furnace parts, radiant tubes, high-heat chemical processing.

For cost-effective options, see sa240 gr 201.

Cost Comparison

As of October 19, 2025:

• 304H: $1.60-$3.50/kg.
• 310: $3.50-$5.00/kg.

Gangsteel offers $1.60/kg for 304H, $3.50/kg for 310 FOB (MOQ 1 ton). Visit astm a 240 stainless plate.

Summary

304His cost-effective for high-temperature applications with good strength, while 310’s high Cr/Ni provides superior heat resistance for extreme environments. Choose 304H for moderate heat, 310 for oxidation-heavy applications.