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Type 304 Squares
ASTM A276 Type 304 stainless steel square bar with excellent corrosion resistance and 73,200 PSI tensile strength. In-stock sizes from 1/4" to 5/8".
About Type 304 Squares
Type 304 stainless steel square bar offers excellent corrosion resistance, high ductility, and excellent weldability. Conforms to ASTM A276 specifications. Ideal for structural supports, frames, and shafts. Custom cutting available.
Quick Facts
- Material: 304 Stainless Steel
- ASTM Standard: A276
- Available Sizes: 1/4", 5/16", 3/8", 1/2", 5/8"
- 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 composition, typically 18% chromium and 8% nickel, provides outstanding resistance to a wide range of atmospheric and chemical corrosives. This non-magnetic alloy maintains its strength at high temperatures and exhibits excellent toughness at cryogenic temperatures. Its combination of formability, weldability, and corrosion resistance makes it a highly versatile material for countless applications.
As a square bar, Type 304 provides structural strength and a uniform shape ideal for fabrication and machining. The material is readily formed, welded, and finished, making it suitable for creating frames, braces, supports, and mounting plates. It is often used where both strength and superior corrosion resistance are required, such as in food processing equipment, architectural trim, chemical containers, and marine hardware components.
Technical Specifications
⚠️ Reference Data Only: Values shown are typical industry standards and may vary by manufacturer, lot, and heat treatment. For critical applications, please contact us to verify specifications or request a Mill Test Report (MTR).
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 Processing: Equipment frames, conveyor supports, and mixing shafts due to its hygienic, non-reactive surface.
- Architectural: Handrails, decorative trim, and structural supports for its clean appearance and weather resistance.
- Marine: Brackets, fasteners, and light structural components that require good resistance to saltwater spray.
- Chemical & Petrochemical: Framework for tanks, pipe supports, and pump shafts where chemical resistance is critical.
- General Fabrication: Machinery frames, braces, axles, and supports that need a combination of strength and weldability.
- Medical Equipment: Instrument trays, stands, and equipment carts due to its ability to be sterilized.
- Automotive: Support brackets and fasteners where durability and corrosion resistance are needed.
Working with Type 304 Squares
Machining
Type 304 stainless steel is known to be tough and prone to work-hardening. For best results, use slow speeds, heavy and constant feeds, sharp tooling, and a proper cutting lubricant. Chip breakers are recommended to manage the stringy chips this alloy produces.
Welding
This grade has excellent weldability and is suitable for all standard fusion and resistance welding methods. AWS E/ER308 or 308L filler metals are commonly used. Post-weld annealing is not typically required but can be performed to restore full corrosion resistance in highly corrosive environments.
Finishing
304 square bar comes with a standard mill finish but can be polished to various standards, including a #4 brushed finish or a mirror polish. It also responds well to passivation to enhance its natural corrosion resistance by removing free iron from the surface.
Related Stainless Steel Bar Products
| Product | Key Feature | Primary Use Case |
|---|---|---|
| 316 Stainless Square Bar | Superior corrosion resistance (molybdenum) | Marine, chemical, and coastal applications |
| 303 Stainless Round Bar | Excellent machinability (sulfur added) | High-volume machined parts like shafts and fittings |
| 304 Stainless Flat Bar | Wide, flat surface area for mounting | Brackets, base plates, and structural supports |
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is 304 stainless steel magnetic?
A: In its annealed, as-supplied condition, 304 stainless steel is austenitic and non-magnetic. However, it can become slightly magnetic after cold working (such as bending or machining) due to a structural change to martensite.
Q: Can I use 304 stainless steel for outdoor applications?
A: Yes, 304 offers excellent resistance to atmospheric corrosion, making it a reliable choice for outdoor uses like railings and architectural trim. For marine or coastal environments with direct salt exposure, Grade 316 is the recommended alternative.
Q: What is the main difference between 304 and 316 stainless steel?
A: The key difference is the addition of molybdenum (2-3%) in Grade 316. This gives 316 significantly better corrosion resistance, especially against chlorides found in salt water, de-icing salts, and industrial chemicals. 304 is the general-purpose standard.
Stock & Custom Sizes
Available sizes: 1/4" to 5/8" square. Standard lengths: 12 ft. Custom size available.
Same-day cutting and Los Angeles pickup available.
View Sizes & PricingNeed Type 304 Squares? Contact Bobco Metals for availability and Los Angeles pickup.
Request a Quote Ask an Expert| Item Size & Description | Weight (lbs.)/Ft | Click! Arrow to Select Size | Qty | Price | Actions |
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0.332
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0.478
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0.851
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1.329
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1.914
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3.403
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