304 Stainless Steel Pipe

304 stainless steel pipe(also designated as UNS S30400,EN 1.4301,SUS304)is the most widely used austenitic stainless steel piping material globally,often called the“18-8”grade for its typical 18%chromium and 8%nickel composition(C≤0.08%).It forms a self-healing passive chromium oxide layer on the surface,delivering outstanding corrosion resistance,formability,and hygienic performance for diverse industrial and commercial applications.

Chemical Composition&Mechanical Properties

Key Elements:Cr 18.00–20.00%,Ni 8.00–10.50%,C≤0.08%,Mn≤2.00%,Si≤0.75%

Typical Mechanical Values(Annealed):Yield Strength≥205 MPa;Tensile Strength≥515 MPa;Elongation≥40%

Physical Traits:Non-magnetic in annealed state(slight magnetism after cold working);Good heat resistance(continuous service up to 870°C/1600°F);Low thermal conductivity and high ductility.

Product Types&International Standards

Types:Seamless Pipe(hot/cold finished),Welded Pipe(ERW,TIG,Laser-welded),Sanitary Pipe,Round/Square/Rectangular Tubing,Decorative Pipe

Core Standards:ASTM A312,ASTM A213,ASTM A269,EN 10216-5,JIS G3459,GB/T 14976

Available Sizes:OD from 6 mm to 2000 mm;Wall thickness from 0.5 mm to 50 mm(custom sizes available)

Core Advantages

Superior Corrosion Resistance:Resists rust,mild acids,alkalis,freshwater,and atmospheric exposure;ideal for non-extreme chloride environments(316/316L recommended for heavy salt spray).

Excellent Fabricability:Easy to weld(TIG/MIG),bend,cut,and machine;no pre-heat required for most welding jobs.

Hygienic&Easy to Clean:Non-porous surface prevents bacterial growth,meeting FDA/3A standards for food,beverage,and pharmaceutical applications.

Cost-Effective Longevity:Lower lifecycle costs than carbon steel(minimal maintenance,no painting,long service life of 20+years in most settings).

Aesthetic Appeal:Smooth,silver metallic finish,suitable for architectural and decorative uses.

Applications Across Industries

Food&Beverage/Pharmaceutical:Sanitary piping for milk,beer,juices,pharmaceuticals,and clean-in-place(CIP)systems.

Chemical&Petrochemical:Fluid transfer lines for mild corrosive media,heat exchangers,and process piping.

Water Treatment&HVAC:Potable water lines,cooling towers,and central heating systems.

Architecture&Construction:Handrails,structural columns,facade cladding,and urban infrastructure.

Marine&General Engineering:Non-critical marine piping,instrumentation tubes,and custom fabrication projects.

Notes&Alternatives

304L(low-carbon variant,C≤0.03%)is recommended for heavy welding or high-temperature applications to avoid intergranular corrosion.

Avoid prolonged exposure to high-concentration chlorides(e.g.,seawater at high temperatures)to prevent pitting corrosion.