Overview

Type 304 Stainless Steel Squares represent the industry standard for chromium-nickel austenitic stainless steel, commonly known as '18-8' for its composition of 18% chromium and 8% nickel. These squares are engineered to deliver exceptional performance across a vast spectrum of industrial and commercial applications. Their versatility makes them a fundamental material for fabricators, engineers, and manufacturers seeking a reliable, corrosion-resistant steel product.

Type 304 squares are part of the 300 series of austenitic stainless steels. This grade is non-magnetic in the annealed condition and cannot be hardened by heat treatment. However, it can be significantly strengthened by cold working. The key to its performance is the balanced chemical composition, which provides an optimal combination of strength, formability, and most importantly, resistance to a wide range of atmospheric and chemical corrodents.

The application range for Type 304 squares is extensive. They are commonly used in the fabrication of architectural components, kitchen equipment, food processing machinery, chemical containers, and pharmaceutical equipment. Their excellent weldability and formability allow them to be easily integrated into complex structures and assemblies, making them a preferred choice for custom fabrication projects.

The primary advantage of Type 304 stainless steel squares is their remarkable resistance to rust and oxidation. They perform exceptionally well in mild environments and are resistant to most organic chemicals and dyestuffs. Furthermore, their high fabrication ability?including easy welding, machining, and polishing?ensures they can be adapted to precise specifications with minimal effort. For B2B buyers, this translates to reduced production time, lower risk of material failure, and a superior final product that meets stringent industry standards.

Specifications

• Standard: ASTM A276, ASTM A484
• Grade: UNS S30400, AISI 304
• Condition: Annealed & Pickled
• Shape: Square Bar
• Dimensions: 1/4" to 2" square, custom sizes available
• Tolerances: Standard mill tolerances apply. Custom tolerances available upon request
• Lengths: Standard 12' and 20', custom lengths available

Applications

• Architectural & Construction: Trim, handrails, decorative elements, structural supports
• Food & Beverage Industry: Processing equipment, conveyor systems, structural supports, hygienic surfaces
• Chemical Processing: Tanks, pipes, and fittings for mild corrosive services
• Pharmaceutical: Equipment frames, hygienic surfaces, laboratory furniture
• Manufacturing & Fabrication: Machine parts, jigs, fixtures, and general fabrication where corrosion resistance is required
• Marine: Boat fittings, railings, and hardware for coastal environments

Weldability

• Welds readily by MIG, TIG, Stick, or Flux-core processes
• Use Type 308L or Type 309L filler metals for optimal corrosion resistance
• Clean surfaces thoroughly before welding to prevent contamination
• Post-weld cleaning recommended to restore corrosion resistance in heat-affected zones

How to Measure

Order Checklist

• Square size (e.g., 1" x 1") and required length
• Grade (Type 304) and quantity (pieces or total feet)
• Cutting instructions (standard lengths or custom cuts with tolerance)
• Surface finish requirements (2B, No. 4, polished, etc.)
• Condition (annealed, cold finished, etc.)
• Any certifications (Mill Test Report - MTR) required for traceability
• Special handling, packaging, or delivery requirements