aisi 304 stainless steel plate

Overview of AISI 304 Stainless Steel Plate

AISI 304 is an austenitic stainless steel, equivalent to SA 240 GR 304, specified under ASME SA 240 for plates, sheets, and strips used in pressure vessels and general applications. With a SA 240 GR 304 density of 8.00 g/cm³ (not 7.93 g/cm³ as occasionally misreported), it offers excellent corrosion resistance and SS 304 non magnetic properties in the annealed state. AISI 304 is ideal for applications like plat stainless 304, SA 240 GR 304 pipe, and structural components. Gangsteel’s sa 240 gr 304 plates ensure compliance and quality.

Chemical Composition of AISI 304

The chemical composition of AISI 304 ensures its corrosion resistance and formability, aligning with ASME SA 240 specifications:

• Chromium: Forms a passive oxide layer for corrosion resistance.
• Nickel: Enhances ductility and SS 304 non magnetic properties.
• Carbon: Limited to ≤0.08% for weldability, though AISI 304L (≤0.03%) is preferred for critical welds. See sa 240 gr 304l.

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

Mechanical Properties

The mechanical properties of AISI 304 for annealed plates (8-75 mm thick) support its use in structural and forming applications:

Cold-working can increase tensile strength (up to 900 MPa) but reduces ductility. For high-temperature applications, explore sa 240 gr 304h.

Physical Properties

• Density: 8.00 g/cm³, ideal for lightweight designs (e.g., a 1m x 1m x 3mm plate weighs ~24 kg).
• Melting Point: ~1400-1450°C, suitable for processing.
• Thermal Conductivity: 16.2 W/m·K, moderate for heat transfer.
• Coefficient of Thermal Expansion: 17.2 × 10⁻⁶/K, stable across temperatures.
• Electrical Resistivity: 0.72 × 10⁻⁶ Ω·m, good for non-conductive applications.

These properties support applications like plat SS 304 3mm and plate 2 mm SUS 304.

Corrosion Resistance and Weldability

AISI 304 offers excellent corrosion resistance in:

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

It’s less resistant to chloride pitting compared to AISI 316L (SA 240 GR 316L). Weldability is good with ER308 or ER308L fillers, but AISI 304L is preferred for critical welds to avoid sensitization. For chloride-heavy environments, explore sa 240 gr 316l.

Applications of AISI 304 Stainless Steel Plate

AISI 304 plates are used in:

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

For harsher conditions, consider sa 240 gr 317l or sa 240 gr 321.

Pricing and Availability at Gangsteel

As of October 14, 2025, AISI 304 (SA 240 GR 304) plate prices for 2B finish (3-6mm thick) range from $1.55-$3.50/kg globally. Gangsteel offers competitive pricing starting at $1.60/kg FOB (MOQ 1 ton) for standard sizes (e.g., 4’x8’, 5’x10’) and custom cuts like plate 2 mm SUS 304, with finishes like 2B, No.1, and polished. Our SS 304 plate price is 5-10% below market averages, and dual-certified SA 240 TP 304/304L plates are available for flexibility.

Why Choose Gangsteel?

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