Type 304 Rectangular Tubes

Type 304 Rectangular Tubes

Type 304 Rectangular Tubes

Type 304 Stainless Steel is the basic "18-8" chromium-nickel stainless steel, containing 18% chromium and 8% nickel. It combines excellent mechanical properties with remarkable resistance to many corrosive agents, offering high resistance to rust and exceptional fabrication capabilities. Type 304 rectangular tubes are ideal for structural, architectural, and industrial applications where corrosion resistance, strength, and clean aesthetics are required.

  • 304/304L Stainless
  • 18-8 Chromium-Nickel
  • Excellent Corrosion Resistance
  • Structural Grade

Overview

Type 304 Stainless Steel Rectangular Tubes represent the industry standard for versatile, corrosion-resistant structural components. As the most widely used austenitic stainless steel, Type 304 (often referred to as "18-8" for its 18% chromium and 8% nickel composition) delivers an optimal balance of strength, fabrication ease, and resistance to a wide range of corrosive environments. These rectangular tubes are essential for projects requiring a combination of structural integrity, aesthetic appeal, and long-term reliability.

Type 304 stainless steel rectangular tubes are characterized by their excellent metallurgical properties. The chromium content forms a passive, self-healing oxide layer on the surface, providing inherent resistance to rust and oxidation. The addition of nickel stabilizes the austenitic microstructure, granting exceptional toughness, even at cryogenic temperatures, and good formability. This makes Type 304 rectangular tubing suitable for welding, bending, and machining with standard workshop equipment.

The application range for Type 304 rectangular tubes is extensive. They are a fundamental material in architectural and construction projects for handrails, frames, and decorative structures. In industrial settings, they are used for fabricating machinery guards, conveyor systems, support frames, and processing equipment, particularly in the food, beverage, and pharmaceutical industries where hygiene and cleanability are paramount. Their non-magnetic nature and durability also make them ideal for various automotive and transportation components.

Choosing Type 304 rectangular tubes provides significant advantages. Their high corrosion resistance reduces maintenance costs and extends product lifespan. The material's excellent fabrication characteristics allow for complex designs and easy on-site modifications. Furthermore, the clean, modern appearance of stainless steel enhances the final product's value. For B2B buyers, this translates to a reliable, cost-effective solution that meets stringent technical and aesthetic requirements across countless applications.

Specifications

  • Standard: ASTM A554
  • Grade: 304 / 304L
  • Shape: Welded Rectangular Tube
  • Tolerance: ASTM A554 (Standard Mill Tolerances apply)
  • Width & Height Tolerance: 0.005" for dimensions under 1.5", 0.010" for dimensions 1.5" and over
  • Wall Thickness Tolerance: Typically 10%
  • Straightness Tolerance: Varies by size; consult mill certification
  • Chemistry: Conforms to ASTM A240 for Grade 304
  • Surface Finish: Standard 2B mill finish, polished options available
  • Density: 0.285 lb/in? (7.93 g/cm?)
Values may vary by mill & heat; verify against the MTR for your order.

Applications

  • Architectural & Construction: Handrails, balustrades, door/window frames, decorative trims, structural supports in corrosive environments
  • Industrial Machinery: Equipment frames, guards, conveyor systems, material handling carts, processing line components
  • Food & Beverage Processing: Conveyor frames, work tables, shelving, tanks, and supports where sanitation and corrosion resistance are critical
  • Transportation: Trailers, railcar components, and custom vehicle builds
  • General Fabrication: Custom frames, prototypes, enclosures, and any application requiring a strong, corrosion-resistant rectangular profile
  • Medical Equipment: Structural frames, equipment supports, cleanroom structures
  • Marine Applications: Deck railings, structural supports in coastal environments
  • Pharmaceutical: Processing equipment, cleanroom frames, and supports

Weldability

  • Excellent weldability using MIG, TIG, and Stick welding processes
  • Recommended filler metals: ER308, ER308L, or ER309 for dissimilar metals
  • Use proper shielding gas (argon or argon/CO? mixtures) for optimal results
  • Clean surfaces thoroughly before welding to remove contaminants
  • Use low heat input to minimize carbide precipitation in the heat-affected zone
  • Post-weld cleaning and passivation recommended for maximum corrosion resistance
  • Suitable for all standard fusion welding methods, with or without filler metals

How to Measure

Width Height

Specification Format: Provide dimensions in the order of Outside Dimension (Width) x Outside Dimension (Height) x Wall Thickness. All dimensions are in inches unless otherwise specified.

Example: 2" x 1" x 0.083" Rectangular Tube

Measuring: Measure across the outside faces for width and height, and measure wall thickness using calipers

Ordering Guidelines: Specify material grade (304), finish, length required, and quantity

Structural Applications: Clarify if ASTM A554 structural mechanical tubing specifications are required

Tolerances: Tolerances are per ASTM A554; if tighter tolerances are needed, please specify during the quotation process

Order Checklist

  • Outside dimensions (width x height in inches)
  • Wall thickness (inches)
  • Grade (304 or 304L)
  • Required length (feet or inches)
  • Finish (2B, polished, brushed, etc.)
  • Quantity (pieces or total length)
  • Cutting instructions (specific lengths, miter cuts, tolerance)
  • Any certifications (MTR, material traceability)
  • Special handling or packaging requirements
  • Application details for proper material recommendation

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