
Type 304 Pipe
Type 304 Pipe
Type 304 Stainless Steel is the fundamental "18-8" chromium-nickel austenitic stainless steel. It combines excellent mechanical properties with remarkable resistance to many corrosive agents, offering high resistance to rust and excellent fabrication capabilities across a wide range of industries.
- 304 Stainless Steel (UNS S30400)
- 18-8 Chromium-Nickel
- Austenitic stainless
- Excellent corrosion resistance
- Good weldability
- Seamless & welded pipe
Overview
Type 304 Stainless Steel Pipe represents the industry standard for austenitic chromium-nickel alloys, commonly known as "18-8" stainless steel. This versatile material combines exceptional mechanical properties with outstanding resistance to a wide range of corrosive environments, making it the most widely used stainless steel pipe in industrial and commercial applications worldwide.
Type 304 pipe contains approximately 18% chromium and 8% nickel, which provides excellent corrosion resistance and durability. The austenitic structure gives Type 304 stainless steel pipe superior toughness and fabrication characteristics, including easy welding and forming capabilities. This grade maintains its properties across a broad temperature range, performing reliably from cryogenic temperatures up to 870C (1600F) for intermittent service.
Type 304 pipe serves critical functions across multiple industries including chemical processing, food and beverage production, pharmaceutical manufacturing, architectural applications, and water treatment facilities. Its hygienic properties and ease of cleaning make Type 304 stainless steel pipe ideal for applications requiring strict sanitation standards. The material's resistance to oxidation and corrosion ensures long service life in demanding environments.
The primary advantages of Type 304 pipe include excellent corrosion resistance to most oxidizing acids, outstanding fabrication characteristics, high strength-to-weight ratio, and low maintenance requirements. Type 304 stainless steel pipe offers exceptional value through extended service life and reduced downtime. Its non-magnetic properties in the annealed condition make it suitable for specialized applications where magnetic interference must be minimized. The material's recyclability aligns with sustainable manufacturing practices, providing environmental benefits alongside technical performance.
Specifications
- ASTM Standards: A312 (seamless and welded), A358 (electric fusion welded)
- Dimensions: NPS 1/8" to NPS 24"
- Wall Thickness: Schedule 5S to XXS
- Tolerances: 12.5% wall thickness, 1/64" to 1/32" OD based on size
- Length: Random 17-24', Double Random 38-45', Cut to Length
- End Finish: Plain end, Beveled end, Threaded end per ASME B1.20.1
Applications
- Chemical Processing: Piping systems, pressure vessels, heat exchangers
- Food & Beverage: Processing equipment, transfer lines, sanitary systems
- Architectural: Handrails, structural components, decorative elements
- Pharmaceutical: Process piping, cleanroom applications, CIP systems
- Water Treatment: Distribution pipes, filtration systems, pump stations
- Oil & Gas: Non-critical service lines, instrumentation tubing, utility piping
Weldability
- Excellent weldability using TIG, MIG, plasma arc, and resistance welding
- Recommended filler metals: 308L or 309L stainless steel
- Good for both fusion and solid-state welding techniques
- Post-weld annealing may be required for maximum corrosion resistance
- Low carbon version (304L) available for improved weldability
How to Measure
To order Type 304 pipe, provide:
- Nominal Pipe Size (NPS) or Outside Diameter (OD)
- Schedule or Wall Thickness
- Length in feet or meters
- Material specification (Type 304 or 304L)
- Manufacturing method (seamless or welded)
- End finish requirements (plain, beveled, threaded)
- Required tolerances (OD, wall thickness)
- Quantity and cutting instructions
Order Checklist
- Material: Type 304 or 304L Stainless Steel
- Nominal Pipe Size (NPS) or Outside Diameter (OD)
- Schedule or Wall Thickness
- Required Length and Quantity
- Manufacturing method (seamless, welded)
- End finish requirements
- Cutting instructions and tolerances
- Certifications (MTR, material test reports)
- Packaging and shipping instructions
| Item Size & Description | Weight (lbs.)/Ft | Select Size | Qty | Price | Actions |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1.131 |
Choose from predefined sizes or select custom size for manual entry |
Enter quantity between 1 and 999 | Select a Size | ||
| 1.679 |
Choose from predefined sizes or select custom size for manual entry |
Enter quantity between 1 and 999 | Select a Size |
