Type 304 Perforated Sheets
About Type 304 Perforated Sheets
Type 304 perforated stainless steel sheet combines excellent corrosion resistance with a 73,200 PSI tensile strength. Base material meets ASTM A240. Ideal for filtration, ventilation, and architectural applications. Custom sizing is available.
Quick Facts
- Material: Type 304 Stainless Steel
- ASTM Standard: A240 (Base Material)
- Available Sizes: Specifications vary by size and pattern.
- Location: Los Angeles warehouse
- Services: Custom size, same-day pickup
Overview
Type 304 perforated stainless steel is created by punching or stamping standard 304 sheets to create a pattern of holes. This process yields a material with an excellent strength-to-weight ratio, suitable for a wide range of functional and decorative uses. The base 304 stainless steel is an austenitic alloy, providing superior corrosion and oxidation resistance. Its chromium-nickel content ensures durability in most atmospheric conditions and against many corrosive agents, making it a reliable choice for long-term installations.
The versatility of 304 perforated sheet comes from the variety of available hole patterns, including round, square, and slotted, each offering different open area percentages. This variability allows for precise control over airflow, light transmission, filtration, and acoustic performance. The material is also valued for its aesthetic appeal, cleanability, and hygienic properties, which are critical in architectural, food processing, and medical equipment applications. Its non-magnetic nature in the annealed state is an additional benefit in specialized equipment design.
Technical Specifications
Mechanical Properties (Typical for base material)
| Property | Value | Unit |
|---|---|---|
| Tensile Strength | 73,200 | PSI |
| Yield Strength | 31,200 | PSI |
| Elongation | 70 | % |
| Hardness | 123 | HB |
Applicable Standards
- ASTM A240: Standard Specification for Chromium and Chromium-Nickel Stainless Steel Plate, Sheet, and Strip for Pressure Vessels and for General Applications.
Common Applications
- Architectural & Design: Building facades, infill panels, and sunshades - provides a modern aesthetic with functional light and air control.
- Food Processing: Sorting screens, drying racks, and ventilation hoods - meets sanitary standards and is easy to clean.
- Filtration Systems: Support cores for filter elements and water intake screens - offers a high open area and excellent corrosion resistance.
- HVAC Systems: Grilles, diffusers, and equipment enclosures - allows for airflow while providing durable protection.
- Industrial Machinery: Guards for moving parts and protective enclosures - combines safety with necessary ventilation.
- Acoustic Panels: Sound absorption and diffusion panels in studios or public spaces - controls sound while offering a decorative finish.
- Retail & Fixtures: Point-of-purchase displays, shelving, and lighting fixtures - delivers high strength and a clean, modern look.
Working with Type 304 Perforated Sheets
Machining
Type 304 stainless steel is known to work-harden during machining. Use slow speeds, heavy and consistent feeds, sharp tooling, and a quality cutting lubricant to prevent glazing. Chip breakers are recommended to manage the tough, stringy chips produced.
Welding
304 perforated sheet has excellent weldability using common fusion and resistance methods. To avoid weld decay and maintain corrosion resistance, it is recommended to use Type 308L filler metal. Post-weld annealing is not typically required unless the part will be exposed to severely corrosive environments.
Finishing
The material can be supplied with various finishes, most commonly a 2B mill finish or a #4 brushed finish. It can be further polished, passivated to enhance corrosion resistance, or powder-coated for color. The perforated surface provides a unique texture for all finish types.
Related Products
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is the difference between 304 and 316 perforated sheet?
A: 304 offers excellent general corrosion resistance for most environments. 316 stainless steel contains molybdenum, which gives it superior resistance to chlorides (e.g., salt water, de-icing salts), making it the preferred choice for marine or coastal applications.
Q: Is 304 perforated sheet magnetic?
A: In its fully annealed state, Type 304 is non-magnetic. However, the cold-working that occurs during the punching and perforation process can induce a slight amount of magnetism in the material.
Q: How do I choose the right hole size and pattern?
A: The choice depends on your application's requirements for open area, which affects airflow, light transmission, strength, and filtration capability. A higher open area provides more flow but less structural rigidity. Contact our team to discuss your specific project needs.
Stock & Custom Sizes
Available in standard mill sizes. Custom size available.
Same-day cutting and Los Angeles pickup available.
View Sizes & PricingNeed Type 304 Perforated Sheets? Contact Bobco Metals for availability and Los Angeles pickup.
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