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Overview of SA 240 Type 304 and SA 240 GR 304L Density

SA 240 Type 304 and SA 240 GR 304L are austenitic stainless steels specified under ASME SA 240 for plates, sheets, and strips used in pressure vessels and general applications.

SA 240 Type 304 has a carbon content of ≤0.08%, offering balanced strength, while SA 240 GR 304L has lower carbon (≤0.03%) for enhanced weldability. Both grades share a density of 8.00 g/cm³ (or 8000 kg/m³), as confirmed by ASME SA 240, ASTM A240, and industry standards like Penn Stainless (0.285 lb/in³ = 7.89 g/cm³, approximately 8.00 g/cm³ with rounding) and ThyssenKrupp (8000 kg/m³). The density is identical due to their similar compositions.

Gangsteel’s sa 240 gr 304 and sa 240 gr 304l plates ensure consistent density for accurate weight calculations.

 

Significance of Density

The density of SA 240 Type 304 and SA 240 GR 304L (8.00 g/cm³) is crucial for:

  • Weight Estimation: A 1m x 1m x 3mm plate weighs ~24 kg, aiding in structural design and cost estimation.
  • Comparison: Similar to other austenitic grades (e.g., SA 240 GR 316L), but higher than aluminum (2.7 g/cm³) and lower than carbon steel (7.85 g/cm³).
  • Applications: Supports lightweight designs in food processing and architecture, where corrosion resistance outweighs density concerns.

No significant difference exists between SA 240 Type 304 and SA 240 GR 304L density, as the carbon variation is minimal.

 

Chemical Composition

The chemical composition of SA 240 Type 304 and SA 240 GR 304L is nearly identical, except for carbon, contributing to their shared density:

Element

SA 240 Type 304 (%)

SA 240 GR 304L (%)

Carbon (C)

0.00 - 0.08

0.00 - 0.03

Manganese (Mn)

0.00 - 2.00

0.00 - 2.00

Silicon (Si)

0.00 - 0.75

0.00 - 0.75

Phosphorus (P)

0.00 - 0.045

0.00 - 0.045

Sulfur (S)

0.00 - 0.030

0.00 - 0.030

Chromium (Cr)

18.00 - 20.00

18.00 - 20.00

Nickel (Ni)

8.00 - 10.50

8.00 - 12.00

Nitrogen (N)

0.00 - 0.10

0.00 - 0.10

Iron (Fe)

Balance

Balance

For detailed specs, refer to our SS 304 data sheet.

 

Mechanical Properties

The mechanical properties of SA 240 Type 304 and SA 240 GR 304L for annealed plates (8-75 mm thick) are similar, with 304L slightly lower due to reduced carbon:

Property

SA 240 Type 304 (Min)

SA 240 GR 304L (Min)

Notes

Tensile Strength (MPa)

515

485

304 stronger due to higher carbon

Yield Strength (0.2% Offset, MPa)

205

170

304L sacrifices strength for weldability

Elongation (A5, 50 mm)

40%

40%

Both highly ductile

Hardness (Brinell)

≤ 201 HB

≤ 201 HB

Similar machinability

 

 

Corrosion Resistance and Weldability

Both grades offer excellent corrosion resistance in:

  • Atmospheric conditions, freshwater, and mild acids (food-grade).
  • General environments, outperforming SS204 vs SS 304.

SA 240 GR 304L has superior weldability due to lower carbon, reducing sensitization risks. For chloride-heavy environments, explore sa 240 gr 316l.

 

Applications

SA 240 Type 304 and SA 240 GR 304L are used in:

  • Food Processing: Tanks and equipment (hygienic, non-tarnishing).
  • Chemical Industry: Vessels and SA 240 GR 304 pipe for mild corrosives.
  • Architecture: Structural panels like plat stainless 304.
  • Automotive: Components requiring corrosion resistance.

For high-temperature applications, explore sa 240 gr 304h.

 

Pricing and Availability at Gangsteel

As of October 14, 2025, SA 240 Type 304 and SA 240 GR 304L plate prices (2B finish, 3-6mm) range from $1.55-$3.50/kg globally. Gangsteel offers competitive pricing at $1.60/kg FOB for SA 240 Type 304 and $1.50/kg FOB for SA 240 GR 304L (MOQ 1 ton), including custom sizes like plate 2 mm SUS 304.

 

Why Choose Gangsteel?

Gangsteel provides certified SA 240 Type 304 and SA 240 GR 304L plates with consistent density and properties, at competitive SS 304 plate price. Our 600+ ton inventory supports global delivery for applications from plat stainless 304 to heavy plates. For quotes or to learn more, visit our astm a 240 stainless plate page or email admin@gangsteel.com.

 

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