ss 304 food grade stainless steel

What Makes SA 240 GR 304 Food Grade?

SA 240 GR 304 is classified as food grade stainless steel because it meets stringent requirements for safety, hygiene, and corrosion resistance in food contact applications. Its composition and properties ensure it does not contaminate food, resists corrosion from food acids, and maintains a clean, non-reactive surface. With a SA 240 GR 304 density of 8.00 g/cm³ and SS 304 non magnetic characteristics in the annealed state, it’s ideal for food processing environments. Gangsteel’s sa 240 gr 304 plates are certified for food safety standards.

Chemical Composition of SA 240 GR 304

The chemical makeup of SA 240 GR 304 ensures its suitability for food grade applications:

• Chromium (18-20%): Forms a passive oxide layer, preventing corrosion and contamination.
• Nickel (8-10.5%): Enhances corrosion resistance and ensures a smooth, cleanable surface.
• Low Carbon: Reduces risk of carbide precipitation, though SA 240 GR 304L is preferred for welded food equipment. See our sa 240 gr 304l.

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

Why SA 240 GR 304 is Food Grade

SA 240 GR 304 meets food grade standards (e.g., FDA and EU regulations) due to:

• Corrosion Resistance: Resists pitting and staining from food acids (e.g., citric, acetic) and cleaning agents, unlike SS204 vs SS 304, which has lower corrosion resistance.
• Non-Reactive Surface: Does not leach harmful substances into food, ensuring safety.
• Ease of Cleaning: Smooth finishes (e.g., 2B, polished) on plat stainless 304 prevent bacterial growth and simplify sanitation.
• Durability: Withstands frequent cleaning and harsh sanitizers without degrading.

Compared to SA 240 GR 304H material, 304 is better suited for food applications due to its balanced properties. For chloride-heavy environments, consider sa 240 gr 316l.

Mechanical Properties Supporting Food Applications

SA 240 GR 304’s mechanical properties ensure durability in food processing:

These properties support forming complex shapes like plat SS 304 3mm or plate 2 mm SUS 304 for equipment like conveyors and tanks. For high-temperature applications, explore sa 240 gr 304h.

Food Grade Applications of SA 240 GR 304

SA 240 GR 304 is widely used in:

• Kitchen Equipment: Sinks, countertops, and utensils due to its hygienic surface.
• Food Processing: Tanks, mixers, and SA 240 GR 304 pipe for handling liquids and solids.
• Brewing and Dairy: Vessels resistant to acidic byproducts.
• Packaging: Containers and conveyors requiring cleanability.

Gangsteel offers competitive SS 304 plate price options for food industry needs. For harsher conditions, check our sa 240 gr 317l.

Maintenance for Food Grade Use

To maintain SA 240 GR 304’s food grade properties:

• Regular Cleaning: Use mild detergents or stainless steel cleaners to remove residues.
• Avoid Chlorides: Rinse off salt solutions to prevent pitting, especially in coastal areas.
• Passivation: Apply nitric acid treatments periodically to enhance the oxide layer.

For welded food equipment, SA 240 GR 304L with ER308L filler is recommended to prevent corrosion. See our sa 240 gr 316 for enhanced pitting resistance.

Why Choose Gangsteel for Food Grade SA 240 GR 304?

Gangsteel supplies certified SA 240 GR 304 plates with food-safe finishes and competitive SS 304 sheet price. Our inventory includes custom sizes like plat stainless 304 and SA 240 TP 304/304L for dual certification. For quotes or to learn what is SA 304, visit our astm a 240 stainless plate page or email admin@gangsteel.com.