sa 240 chemical composition

Overview of SA 240 Chemical Composition

The chemical composition of SA 240 grades, as specified by ASME SA 240, defines their suitability for applications like plat stainless 304, SA 240 GR 304 pipe, and pressure vessels.

Each grade is tailored for specific environments, with variations in chromium, nickel, carbon, and other elements like molybdenum or titanium. Below, we focus on five common grades: SA 240 GR 304, 304L, 316, 316L, and 321, which are austenitic stainless steels widely used for their corrosion resistance and formability.

Chemical Composition of Common SA 240 Grades

The following table lists the chemical composition (in weight percentage) for SA 240 GR 304, 304L, 316, 316L, and 321, as per ASME SA 240 standards (as of October 14, 2025):

*Source: ASME SA 240 and ASTM A240 standards, as of October 14, 2025. For detailed specs, refer to our SS 304 data sheet.

Key Notes on Composition

• SA 240 GR 304: High chromium and nickel provide corrosion resistance and SA 240 304 non magnetic properties. Carbon (≤0.08%) balances strength and weldability.
• SA 240 GR 304L: Lower carbon (≤0.03%) enhances weldability, reducing sensitization risks for applications like SA 240 GR 304 pipe. See sa 240 gr 304l.
• SA 240 GR 316: Molybdenum (2-3%) improves pitting resistance in chloride environments (e.g., marine settings).
• SA 240 GR 316L: Combines low carbon (≤0.03%) with molybdenum for superior weldability and corrosion resistance. See sa 240 gr 316l.
• SA 240 GR 321: Titanium stabilizes against sensitization at high temperatures, ideal for heat exchangers. See sa 240 gr 321.

Significance of Chemical Composition

• Chromium (Cr): Forms a passive oxide layer, ensuring corrosion resistance in mild acids, freshwater, and atmospheric conditions, outperforming SS204 vs SS 304.
• Nickel (Ni): Enhances ductility, toughness, and non-magnetic properties.
• Molybdenum (Mo): Exclusive to 316/316L, improves resistance to chloride pitting.
• Carbon (C): Lower in 304L/316L for weldability; higher in 304/316 for strength.
• Titanium (Ti): In 321, prevents carbide precipitation at high temperatures.

Related Properties (SA 240 GR 304 as Example)

• Mechanical Properties(annealed, 8-75 mm thick):
  • Tensile Strength: ≥515 MPa
  • Yield Strength: ≥205 MPa
  • Elongation: ≥40%
  • Hardness: ≤201 HB
• Physical Properties:
  • Density: 8.00 g/cm³ (SA 240 GR 304 density).
  • Thermal Conductivity: 16.2 W/m·K.
  • Coefficient of Thermal Expansion: 17.2 × 10⁻⁶/K.

Applications

These grades support:

• SA 240 GR 304/304L: Food processing (plat stainless 304), chemical tanks, and architecture (plate 2 mm SUS 304).
• SA 240 GR 316/316L: Marine and chemical applications requiring chloride resistance.
• SA 240 GR 321: High-temperature environments like heat exchangers.

For harsher conditions, explore sa 240 gr 317l.

Pricing and Availability

As of October 14, 2025, SA 240 GR 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 SA 240 plates with precise chemical composition and competitive SS 304 plate price. For quotes or to learn what is SA 304, visit our astm a 240 stainless plate page or email admin@gangsteel.com.