Is SS 304 a stainless steel?

Why SS 304 is a Stainless Steel

SS 304, short for Stainless Steel 304, is a chromium-nickel austenitic stainless steel specified under ASME SA 240 and ASTM A240 for plates, sheets, and strips. Stainless steels are iron-based alloys with at least 10.5% chromium, which forms a passive oxide layer that resists corrosion.

 SS 304 contains 18-20% chromium and 8-10.5% nickel, making it a true stainless steel with excellent corrosion resistance and SA 240 304 non magnetic properties in the annealed state. Its SA 240 GR 304 density of 8.00 g/cm³ supports lightweight, durable designs. Gangsteel’s sa 240 gr 304 plates meet these standards.

Chemical Composition of SS 304

The chemical composition of SS 304 confirms its status as a stainless steel:

• Chromium: Provides corrosion resistance via a self-healing oxide layer, a hallmark of stainless steel.
• Nickel: Enhances corrosion resistance, ductility, and SA 240 304 non magnetic properties.
• Carbon: Limited to ≤0.08% for weldability, though SS 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

SS 304’s mechanical properties (annealed, 8-75 mm thick) support its use as a stainless steel:

Physical Properties

• Density: 8.00 g/cm³, ideal for lightweight designs like plat stainless 304.
• Melting Point: ~1400-1450°C.
• Thermal Conductivity: 16.2 W/m·K.
• Coefficient of Thermal Expansion: 17.2 × 10⁻⁶/K.

These properties make SS 304 suitable for plat SS 304 3mm and plate 2 mm SUS 304.

Corrosion Resistance and Weldability

As a stainless steel, SS 304 excels 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 SS 316L. Weldability is good with ER308 fillers, but SS 304L is preferred for critical welds. Explore sa 240 gr 316l.

Applications of SS 304

SS 304’s stainless steel properties support its use in:

• Food Processing: Tanks and equipment (hygienic, non-tarnishing).
• Chemical Industry: Vessels and SA 240 GR 304 pipe.
• Architecture: Panels like plat stainless 304.
• Automotive: Corrosion-resistant components.

For high-temperature applications, see sa 240 gr 304h or sa 240 gr 321.

Pricing and Availability

As of October 14, 2025, SS 304 plate prices (2B finish, 3-6mm) range from $1.55-$3.50/kg globally. Gangsteel offers $1.60/kg FOB (MOQ 1 ton) for sa 240 gr 304 plates.

Why Choose Gangsteel?

Gangsteel provides certified SS 304 plates with competitive SS 304 plate price and sizes like plate 2 mm SUS 304. For quotes or to learn what is SA 304, visit our astm a 240 stainless plate page or email admin@gangsteel.com.