Type 304 Hexagon
About Type 304 Hexagon
304 stainless steel hex bar provides excellent corrosion resistance and weldability. Conforming to ASTM A276, it is ideal for machined parts, fasteners, and fittings. In stock with custom cutting available.
Quick Facts
- Material: 304 Stainless Steel
- ASTM Standard: A276
- Location: Los Angeles warehouse
- Services: Custom size, same-day pickup
Overview
Type 304 is the most widely used austenitic stainless steel, known for its balanced properties. Its 18% chromium and 8% nickel composition provides outstanding resistance to oxidation and corrosion in a wide range of atmospheric and chemical environments. This versatility makes it a reliable choice for structural and general-purpose applications where both strength and durability are required. It maintains its properties well in cryogenic temperatures and is non-magnetic in the annealed condition.
The hexagon bar form is specifically suited for manufacturing fasteners like nuts, bolts, and standoffs, as the shape minimizes machining steps. It's also used for valve bodies, pump shafts, and fittings that require a hexagonal grip for tightening. Produced under ASTM A276 standards, 304 hex bar offers good formability and can be easily welded using common techniques, although it is not optimized for high-speed machining like Type 303.
Technical Specifications
Mechanical Properties
| Property | Value | Unit |
|---|---|---|
| Tensile Strength | 73,200 | PSI |
| Yield Strength | 31,200 | PSI |
| Elongation | 70 | % |
| Hardness | 123 | HB |
Applicable Standards
- ASTM A276: Standard Specification for Stainless Steel Bars and Shapes
Common Applications
- Food & Beverage: Sanitary fittings, processing equipment frames - Excellent corrosion resistance.
- Architecture: Railings, decorative trim, custom fasteners - Aesthetic appeal and weather resistance.
- Machining: Nuts, bolts, and standoffs - Hex shape reduces initial machining steps.
- Fluid Control: Valve bodies, pump shafts, and fittings - Good strength and resistance to corrosive fluids.
- Medical: Non-critical surgical instruments, equipment mounts - Biocompatible and can be sterilized.
- Automotive: Fasteners, brackets, and non-exhaust components - Resists corrosion from road salts and moisture.
- General Fabrication: Braces, supports, and structural components - Good weldability and formability.
- Aerospace: Non-critical structural components, fasteners - Favorable strength-to-weight ratio.
Working with Type 304 Hexagon
Machining
304 stainless steel has fair machinability. It is prone to work hardening, so use sharp tooling, slow speeds, and heavy, constant feeds to prevent glazing. Using chip breakers is recommended. For high-volume production, consider the free-machining grade 303.
Welding
This grade has excellent weldability and is suitable for all standard fusion methods, with or without filler metals. Post-weld annealing is recommended to restore maximum corrosion resistance in the heat-affected zone, especially for heavy sections.
Finishing
304 stainless can be finished to various standards, from a standard mill finish to a highly polished, reflective surface. It is also suitable for passivation to enhance its natural corrosion resistance by removing free iron from the surface.
Related Products
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is the difference between 304 and 304L stainless steel?
A: 304L has a lower carbon content (0.03% max) than 304 (0.08% max). This reduces the risk of chromium carbide precipitation during welding, making 304L better for welded applications to prevent intergranular corrosion. Most stock is dual-certified as 304/304L.
Q: Can I use 304 stainless steel in a marine environment?
A: While 304 has excellent general corrosion resistance, it is susceptible to chloride pitting in saltwater environments. For marine applications, Type 316 stainless steel, which contains molybdenum, is the recommended grade for superior corrosion resistance.
Q: When should I choose 304 hex bar over 303 hex bar?
A: Choose 304 for applications requiring superior corrosion resistance and weldability. Choose 303 for high-volume machining jobs where weldability is not required, as its added sulfur content provides excellent machinability but compromises corrosion resistance and makes it unsuitable for welding.
Stock & Custom Sizes
Available sizes: 1/4" to 3" hex. Standard lengths: 12 ft. Custom size available.
Same-day cutting and Los Angeles pickup available.
View Sizes & PricingNeed Type 304 Hexagon? Contact Bobco Metals for availability and Los Angeles pickup.
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