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Type 304 Flats
Type 304 Stainless Steel Flats
Type 304 Stainless Steel is the basic "18-8" chromium-nickel stainless steel. It combines excellent mechanical properties with remarkable resistance to many corrosive agents, high resistance to rust, and excellent fabrication characteristics for a wide range of industrial and commercial applications.
- 304 / 18-8 Stainless
- Chromium-Nickel Alloy
- Corrosion Resistant
- Excellent Weldability
Overview
Type 304 Stainless Steel Flats represent the industry standard for austenitic stainless steel, commonly known as '18-8' steel for its 18% chromium and 8% nickel composition. This versatile material is the workhorse of countless industrial sectors due to its exceptional balance of corrosion resistance, formability, and durability. As a foundational product in metal supply chains, Type 304 flats provide reliable performance across demanding environments, from food processing plants to architectural applications.
Type 304 stainless steel flats are non-magnetic in the annealed condition and cannot be hardened by heat treatment. Their excellent corrosion resistance stems from the chromium content, which forms a passive oxide layer that protects against oxidizing agents. The addition of nickel enhances ductility and fabrication characteristics. This alloy maintains its properties across a wide temperature range, making it suitable for both cryogenic and elevated temperature service.
Type 304 flats serve as essential components in manufacturing, construction, and industrial equipment. Common applications include structural supports, frames, brackets, and machinery components where corrosion resistance is critical. The material's hygienic properties make it ideal for food and beverage equipment, pharmaceutical processing, and medical device manufacturing. Architectural uses encompass trim, handrails, and decorative elements.
The primary advantage of Type 304 stainless steel flats lies in their versatility. They offer excellent weldability using all standard fusion methods, with or without filler metals. Their fabrication ability allows for easy cutting, bending, and forming into complex shapes. The material's high corrosion resistance minimizes maintenance requirements and extends service life, providing long-term value. Type 304 flats demonstrate good mechanical properties at both high and low temperatures, ensuring reliable performance across diverse operating conditions. Their recyclability aligns with sustainable manufacturing initiatives, while consistent quality ensures predictable performance in critical applications.
Specifications
- Alloy
- 304 (18% Cr, 8% Ni)
- Standards
- ASTM A276, A484, A582
- Width Range
- 1/4" to 12"
- Thickness Range
- 1/8" to 2"
- Tolerances
- 0.005" thickness, 1/64" width (1")
- Condition
- Annealed & Pickled, Centerless Ground or Cold Drawn
- Straightness
- Max 1/8" bow per 5 feet
- Surface Finish
- Standard 2B, other finishes available
Values may vary by mill & heat; verify against the MTR for your order.
Applications
- Food Processing Equipment: Conveyor systems, processing tables, storage racks
- Architectural Components: Handrails, trim, decorative elements, structural supports
- Chemical Processing: Equipment frames, support structures, handling systems
- Medical Equipment: Instrument frames, surgical tool components, hospital fixtures
- Marine Applications: Boat fittings, dock hardware, coastal construction
- Industrial Machinery: Machine frames, guards, brackets, and structural components
- Pharmaceutical: Processing equipment, clean room fixtures
- Consumer Products: Kitchen appliances, utensils, decorative hardware
Weldability
- Excellent weldability using TIG (GTAW), MIG (GMAW), or Stick (SMAW) processes.
- Use 308L or 309L filler material for welding Type 304 stainless steel.
- Thoroughly clean the weld area to remove contaminants and oxides.
- Use proper gas coverage (argon for TIG, trimix for MIG) to prevent oxidation.
- Control heat input to minimize distortion and prevent carbide precipitation.
- Post-weld cleaning is recommended to restore corrosion resistance.
How to Measure & Specify
To specify Type 304 Stainless Steel Flats:
- Dimensions: Specify Width ? Thickness (e.g., 2" ? 1/4").
- Length: Required length in feet or inches.
- Alloy: Type 304 (or 304L for improved weldability).
- Finish: 2B (standard mill), #4 (brushed), #8 (mirror), or other.
- Tolerance: Standard commercial or specify if precision needed.
- Condition: Annealed, cold drawn, or centerless ground.
- Full Spec Example: "2" ? 1/4" Type 304 Stainless Flat, 20' length, 2B finish"
Measurement Tip: Width is measured across the broad face. Thickness is measured perpendicular to width. Always measure at multiple points for accuracy.
Order Checklist
- Dimensions: Width ? Thickness
- Alloy: 304 or 304L
- Quantity: Number of pieces or total linear feet
- Length: Desired length per piece (standard or custom)
- Finish: 2B, #4, #8, or other specified finish
- Tolerance: Standard or precision requirements
- Condition: Annealed, cold drawn, ground
- Cutting Instructions: Tolerance, bundled, or individual
- Certifications: Mill Test Reports (MTRs) required (Yes/No)
- Packaging: Protective requirements for surface finish
| Item Size & Description | Weight (lbs.)/Ft | Select Size | Qty | Price | Actions |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 5.105 |
Choose from predefined sizes or select custom size for manual entry |
Enter quantity between 1 and 999 | Select a Size |
