What is AISI 304

What is AISI 304

One of the most popular steel grades is AISI 304. The steel of this grade belongs to the austenitic group. The austenitic group is characterized by high density and ductility, as well as resistance to corrosion and temperature changes. The carbon content in stainless steel of this brand does not exceed 0.08%, while the coefficient of chromium and nickel varies between 18 and 20% and 8 and 10.5%.

The AISI marking system was developed by the American Iron and Steel Institute and is one of the most widely used marking systems in the world. It is used to label products and raw materials for import into countries in Asia and Eastern Europe, as well as national systems.

The type AISI 304 steel is characterized by the presence of a thin layer of chromium oxide on the surface. This layer reliably protects the product against corrosion, even under the influence of aggressive chemicals, foodstuffs, water, soil, sudden temperature changes, etc. Unlike other steels, AISI 304 stainless steel is welded without restrictions. AISI 304 is a low carbon stainless steel. Due to the versatility of its physical properties, this type of steel is one of the most popular. AISI 304 steel is used to manufacture appliances used in the hospitality, food and chemical industries.

Compound:

C 0.08% - the carbon content in the alloy is 0.08%. Carbon is the main element in steel, it increases strength and gives the metal good hardness.

Cr 18.0 - 20.0% - the chromium content in the alloy is 18.0 - 20.0%. Chrome is a gray and white glossy carbide. Chromium affects the hardenability of steel, gives the alloy anti-corrosion properties and increases wear resistance.

Mn 2.0% - the manganese content in the alloy is 2.0%. Manganese is used in steel production. Can increase the hardness of steel. Steels with a high manganese content are used to make various durable things - rails, safes and so on.

NI 8.0 - 10.5% - nickel content in the alloy - 8.0 - 10.5%. Nickel increases the corrosion resistance of steel and can easily increase strength.

Si 1.00% - the silicon content in the alloy is 1.00%. Silicon increases the strength and durability of steel. Like manganese, it makes steel more stable and reliable.

P 0.045% - the phosphorus content in the alloy is 0.045%. Phosphorus refers to harmful technological impurities in steel and alloys. Increasing content even by a fraction of a percent, which increases strength, also increases vulnerability. The harmful effects of phosphorus are particularly pronounced at an increased carbon content. The limits of the phosphorus content as a technological contaminant are 0.025 ... 0.045%.

S 0.03% - The sulfur content in the alloy is 0.03%. Like phosphorus, sulfur refers to harmful technological impurities in steel and alloys. Increasing the sulfur content significantly reduces the mechanical and physicochemical properties of steel, especially ductility, toughness, wear resistance and corrosion resistance. The limits of sulfur content as a technological pollution are 0.035 ... 0.06%.

The presence and such treatment of such a percentage of alloying elements gives this metal the urgently needed and useful properties.

Useful features:

Long-term resistance to high or low temperatures. The range of permissible temperatures obtained experimentally varies from minus 200 ° C to plus 650 ° C.

High resistance to prolonged exposure to aggressive environments (salt water, acidic and alkaline solutions). That means good corrosion resistance.

Weak magnetization. This can be achieved by creating a special structure and processing methods.

Improved weldability

Increased strength

Good formability of grade 304 steel (AISI), enabling successful forming and bending.

High resistance to oxidation.

Almost perfect prevention of contamination of products stored in containers made of this steel.

Excellent aesthetics and easy cleaning after applying the dishes.

Wide range of applications.

Other advantages include long product life of this metal and low operating costs.