Stainless 304 Flat Plate: Gangsteel Stainless Solution in China

Introduction to Stainless 304 Flat Plate

Stainless 304 flat plate, also known as AISI 304 or UNS S30400 stainless steel plate, is a widely used austenitic stainless steel product characterized by its excellent corrosion resistance, superior formability, and high strength-to-weight ratio. This flat-rolled material is produced in various thicknesses, typically ranging from 0.3 mm to 100 mm, and is essential for applications requiring durability in mildly corrosive environments. Compliant with standards such as ASTM A240 and ASME SA240, Stainless 304 flat plates are integral to industries including chemical processing, food and beverage, architecture, and automotive manufacturing. Gangsteel, a premier manufacturer and exporter based in China, specializes in high-quality Stainless 304 flat plates, offering precision-cut dimensions and surface finishes tailored to client specifications. As a trusted supplier of ASME SA240 stainless steel plates, Gangsteel ensures rigorous quality control and competitive pricing for global markets. This comprehensive guide delves into the technical specifications, performance characteristics, and practical applications of Stainless 304 flat plates.

What is Stainless 304 Flat Plate?

Stainless 304 flat plate is derived from the 18/8 chromium-nickel alloy family, featuring approximately 18% chromium and 8% nickel, which imparts its austenitic microstructure. This structure provides non-magnetic properties in the annealed state, exceptional ductility, and resistance to intergranular corrosion when properly processed. The "flat plate" designation refers to its rolled form, available in widths from 1000 mm to 2500 mm and lengths up to 6000 mm, with common surface finishes including 2B (cold-rolled, annealed, pickled), No.4 (brushed), and BA (bright annealed) for aesthetic and functional versatility. Equivalent international designations include EN 1.4301 (X5CrNi18-10), JIS SUS304, and GB 0Cr18Ni9, facilitating seamless integration in multinational projects. Gangsteel's SA240 Gr 304 flat plates are manufactured to exceed ASTM A240 and ASME SA240 requirements, ensuring compliance with ISO 9001 quality management systems.

Chemical Composition of Stainless 304 Flat Plate

The chemical composition of Stainless 304 flat plate is meticulously controlled to achieve optimal balance between corrosion resistance, weldability, and mechanical integrity. As per ASTM A240/ASME SA240 specifications, the nominal composition is as follows:

Gangsteel employs advanced metallurgical controls to maintain these compositions, ensuring consistency across batches and compatibility with JIS G 4304 stainless steel plate standards.

Mechanical Properties of Stainless 304 Flat Plate

Stainless 304 flat plates demonstrate robust mechanical properties that support demanding structural and functional roles. Tested per ASTM A240/ASME SA240, the key properties at room temperature are:

These properties position Stainless 304 flat plates as superior to lower-alloy alternatives like SA240 Gr 201, while Gangsteel also provides SA240 Gr 304L for enhanced weldability.

Equivalent Materials for Stainless 304 Flat Plate

Stainless 304 flat plates have established equivalents in international standards, promoting interoperability in global supply chains. The table below outlines key equivalents:

Gangsteel’s Stainless 304 flat plates are fully interchangeable with these equivalents, facilitating seamless integration with ASTM A 959 stainless steel plates.

Applications of Stainless 304 Flat Plate

Stainless 304 flat plates are deployed across diverse sectors where corrosion resistance and aesthetic appeal are paramount. The table below enumerates primary applications:

Gangsteel’s ASME SA 213/SA 213M stainless pipes enhance system compatibility with Stainless 304 flat plates.

Comparing Stainless 304 Flat Plate with Other Grades

Stainless 304 flat plates offer a cost-effective baseline for many applications, but comparisons with other grades highlight trade-offs:

• Stainless 304 vs 316: Stainless 304 provides adequate general corrosion resistance at a lower cost, suitable for indoor or mildly corrosive settings, whereas Stainless 316 incorporates molybdenum for superior pitting resistance in chloride environments like marine or coastal applications, justifying a 20-30% price premium.
• Stainless 304 vs 304L: Stainless 304 exhibits higher tensile strength for structural loads, but Stainless 304L's reduced carbon content (<0.03%) minimizes sensitization during welding, preventing intergranular corrosion—ideal for fabricated assemblies where post-weld annealing is impractical.
• Stainless 304 vs 201: Stainless 304's higher nickel content ensures better overall corrosion resistance and polishability for decorative uses, while Stainless 201, with manganese substitution for nickel, is 20-30% cheaper but prone to rust in humid or outdoor conditions.
• Stainless 304 vs 430: Stainless 304 is austenitic and non-magnetic with superior formability and weldability, outperforming the ferritic, magnetic Stainless 430 in corrosive or low-temperature scenarios, though 430 is more economical for non-structural, mildly aggressive environments.

Gangsteel’s nickel alloy steel plates serve as high-end alternatives for ultra-corrosive or high-temperature demands.

Why Choose Gangsteel’s Stainless 304 Flat Plate?

Gangsteel stands out as a stainless solution provider in China, delivering Stainless 304 flat plates with unparalleled advantages:

• Uncompromising Quality Compliance: All plates adhere to ASME SA240 and ASTM A240 standards, backed by third-party mill test certificates (MTCs) ensuring traceability and performance.
• Advanced Customization Capabilities: From precision laser-cutting to custom surface treatments (e.g., mill finish, polished, or patterned), Gangsteel accommodates thicknesses from 0.3 mm to 100 mm, widths up to 2500 mm, and lengths to 12000 mm.
• Global Export Expertise: With a robust logistics network, Gangsteel ships to over 80 countries, offering FOB, CIF, and DDP terms, competitive lead times (2-4 weeks), and comprehensive packaging to prevent transit damage.
• Extensive Product Variety: Beyond Stainless 304, Gangsteel stocks SA240 Gr 347 for stabilized high-temperature service and SA240 Gr 201L for budget-conscious lean-duplex options.

Conclusion

Stainless 304 flat plates represent a cornerstone of modern engineering, blending corrosion resistance, mechanical robustness, and economic viability for applications spanning chemical reactors to architectural facades. With a meticulously balanced chemical composition and proven mechanical properties, these plates deliver reliable performance across global standards. Gangsteel’s stainless solutions in China, encompassing SA240 Gr 316L for enhanced marine durability and SA240 Gr 904L for ultra-corrosive environments, underscore our commitment to excellence. Contact Gangsteel today for UNS stainless steel plates to elevate your projects with precision-engineered materials.