Home > News >

 

Super 304H Stainless Steel: Properties and Meaning

At Gangsteel, a premier manufacturer and exporter of stainless steel products, we supply high-quality ASME SA240 Stainless sheet compliant with ASME SA 240 and ASTM A240 standards. sa240 gr 317l is a high-carbon austenitic stainless steel optimized for elevated-temperature service. "Super 304H" refers to an enhanced variant of 304H, often with improved creep resistance through microalloying or processing, used in supercritical boilers and heat exchangers. This guide details the properties and meaning of Super 304H stainless steel. For inquiries, contact us at admin@gangsteel.com.

 

Meaning of Super 304H Stainless Steel

Super 304H stainless steel is an advanced grade based on SA 240 GR 304H, with higher carbon (0.04-0.10%) and sometimes additions like niobium or titanium for enhanced creep strength up to 1500°F (815°C). The "Super" denotes proprietary improvements for ultra-supercritical power plants, distinguishing it from standard 304H. It retains the austenitic structure, offering non-magnetic properties and a density of 8.00 g/cm³. See sa240 gr 317 for similar high-alloy grades.

 

Chemical Composition of Super 304H Stainless Steel

The composition of Super 304H stainless steel supports high-temperature stability:

Element

Range (%)

Carbon (C)

0.04 - 0.10

Manganese (Mn)

0.00 - 2.00

Silicon (Si)

0.00 - 0.75

Phosphorus (P)

0.00 - 0.045

Sulfur (S)

0.00 - 0.030

Chromium (Cr)

18.00 - 20.00

Nickel (Ni)

8.00 - 10.50

Niobium (Nb)

0.15 - 0.45

Nitrogen (N)

0.00 - 0.10

Iron (Fe)

Balance

Higher carbon and niobium improve creep resistance. See sa240 gr 316l for molybdenum-enhanced variants.

 

Mechanical Properties of Super 304H Stainless Steel

The mechanical properties of Super 304H stainless steel for annealed plates (8-75 mm thick) include:

Property

Value (Minimum)

Tensile Strength

515 MPa (75 ksi)

Yield Strength (0.2% Offset)

205 MPa (30 ksi)

Elongation (A5, 50 mm)

40%

Hardness (Brinell)

≤ 201 HB

Hardness (Rockwell B)

≤ 92 HRB

  • Tensile Strength: 515 MPa provides robust performance.
  • Yield Strength: 205 MPa ensures resistance to deformation.
  • Elongation: 40% supports ductility.
  • Hardness: ≤201 HB allows machinability.
  • High-Temperature: Allowable stress 25.5 ksi at 1000°F. See sa240 gr 316ln.

 

Physical Properties of Super 304H Stainless Steel

Physical properties include:

  • Density: 8.00 g/cm³.
  • Melting Point: 1400-1450°C.
  • Thermal Conductivity: 16.2 W/m·K.
  • Coefficient of Thermal Expansion: 17.2 × 10⁻⁶/K.
  • Service Temperature: Up to 1500°F (815°C) continuous.

These support high-heat stability. See sa240 gr 201 for low-cost alternatives.

 

Corrosion Resistance of Super 304H Stainless Steel

Super 304H stainless steel resists mild acids and atmospheric conditions, similar to 304. Higher carbon may reduce weld zone resistance without annealing. Less effective against chlorides than sa240 gr 202. See sa240 gr 255 for duplex options.

 

Weldability of Super 304H Stainless Steel

Weldability is fair with ER308H fillers. Higher carbon risks sensitization, requiring annealing. For better welds, see sa240 gr 301.

 

Applications of Super 304H Stainless Steel

Super 304H stainless steel is used in boilers, heat exchangers, power generation, and high-temperature piping. For low-carbon alternatives, see sa240 gr 301l.

Pricing and Availability

As of October 19, 2025, Super 304H plate prices range from $1.60-$3.50/kg. Gangsteel offers $1.60/kg FOB (MOQ 1 ton). Contact admin@gangsteel.com.

FAQ on Super 304H Stainless Steel

What is the difference between 304L and 304H stainless steel?

304L has low carbon (≤0.03%) for weldability, while 304H (0.04-0.10%) provides high-temperature strength up to 1500°F. 304H is better for creep resistance but requires annealing to avoid sensitization. See sa240 gr 301ln.

What is the difference between 304 and 304H?

304 has ≤0.08% carbon for general use; 304H has 0.04-0.10% carbon for enhanced creep strength at elevated temperatures. 304H is ideal for boilers, while 304 suits mild environments. See sa240 gr 305.

What is 304H stainless steel?

A high-carbon stainless steel for high-temperature service, with improved creep resistance. See sa240 gr 316n.

Welding 304H stainless steel

Use ER308H fillers with low heat input (<2.0 kJ/mm) and post-weld annealing to prevent sensitization. For alternatives, see sa240 gr 316ti.

What is the carbon content of 304H?

0.04-0.10%, enhancing strength but requiring careful welding. See sa240 gr 302.

 

 

Other Products