AISI 304 stainless steel is a widely used material renowned for its excellent corrosion resistance, versatility, and durability. With a balanced composition of chromium and nickel, AISI 304 offers superior resistance to oxidation, acids, and other corrosive elements, making it suitable for various applications across various industries. In this datasheet, we’ll delve into the detailed chemical composition, mechanical properties, physical characteristics, corrosion resistance, and common applications of AISI 304 stainless steel, providing valuable insights for engineers, designers, and fabricators.
Chemical Composition
| Element | Content (%) |
|---|---|
| Carbon (C) | 0.08 max |
| Manganese | 2.00 max |
| Silicon (Si) | 0.75 max |
| Phosphorus | 0.045 max |
| Sulfur | 0.030 max |
| Chromium | 18.0 – 20.0 |
| Nickel | 8.0 – 10.5 |
Mechanical Properties
| Property | Value |
|---|---|
| Tensile Strength | 515 MPa min |
| Yield Strength | 205 MPa min |
| Elongation | 40% min |
| Hardness (Brinell) | 201 max |
| Hardness (Rockwell B) | 92 max |
Physical Properties
| Property | Value |
|---|---|
| Density | 8.03 g/cm³ |
| Melting Range | 1400-1450°C |
| Thermal Conductivity | 16.2 W/m·K |
| Specific Heat Capacity | 500 J/kg·K |
Corrosion Resistance
AISI 304 stainless steel exhibits excellent corrosion resistance in various environments, including atmospheric, chemical, and marine conditions. Its corrosion resistance is attributed to the presence of chromium and nickel, which form a passive oxide layer on the surface, protecting it from corrosive attack.
Applications
- Food Processing Equipment: AISI 304 is commonly used in the food industry for equipment such as tanks, vats, and processing machinery due to its hygienic properties and corrosion resistance.
- Architectural Applications: AISI 304’s aesthetic appeal and durability make it suitable for architectural applications such as building facades, handrails, and decorative elements.
- Kitchen Appliances: AISI 304 stainless steel is used to manufacture kitchen sinks, countertops, and appliances due to its corrosion resistance and easy-to-clean surface.
- Chemical Industry: It finds applications in the chemical industry for storage tanks, piping systems, and chemical processing equipment due to its resistance to corrosion from chemicals and acids.
Fabrication and Welding
AISI 304 stainless steel is readily weldable using common welding techniques such as TIG (Tungsten Inert Gas), MIG (Metal Inert Gas), and resistance welding. It can also be cold-worked and formed into various shapes without losing its corrosion resistance properties.
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