304 stainless steel is one of the most common stainless steel materials, with a density of 7.93 g/cm³. It is also widely referred to as “18/8 stainless steel,” indicating that it contains at least 18% chromium and 8% nickel. This alloy can withstand high temperatures of up to 800°C, offering excellent machinability and high toughness. Due to these properties, 304 stainless steel is extensively used in industrial applications, furniture decoration, food processing, and the medical industry.
However, it is essential to distinguish between regular 304 stainless steel and food-grade 304 stainless steel. While international standards define 304 stainless steel as containing 18%-20% chromium and 8%-10% nickel, food-grade 304 stainless steel maintains stricter composition requirements. Specifically, it contains exactly 18% chromium and 8% nickel, with controlled variations, and imposes strict limits on heavy metal content to ensure safety in food and medical applications. Therefore, not all 304 stainless steel qualifies as food-grade stainless steel.
International Standards and Markings
Various international standards categorize 304 stainless steel differently:
- 06Cr19Ni10 (Chinese National Standard – GB/T)
- 304 (American ASTM Standard)
- SUS304 (Japanese JIS Standard)
Key Applications of 304 Stainless Steel
304 stainless steel is a versatile material known for its excellent corrosion resistance and formability. It is widely used in industries requiring durable and hygienic materials, including:
- Food and Beverage Industry: Used in kitchen utensils, cookware, and food processing equipment.
- Medical Equipment: Preferred for surgical instruments and hospital-grade materials due to its non-reactive properties.
- Industrial Applications: Utilized in chemical processing plants and machinery components.
- Architectural and Decorative Use: Found in handrails, facades, and interior designs.
To ensure that stainless steel maintains its superior corrosion resistance, it must contain at least 18% chromium and 8% nickel. 304 stainless steel, produced under ASTM standards, remains a global benchmark for high-performance stainless steel materials, making it an essential choice across multiple industries worldwide.
