Material datasheet · Austenitic stainless
Stainless Steel 304
UNS S30400 · Solution annealed (~1900–2050°F, water quench)
The general-purpose austenitic stainless — 18/8. Corrosion-resistant, weldable, ubiquitous; slightly easier to cut than 316L.
Chemical composition
Nominal % by weight.
| Element | % by wt |
|---|---|
| Fe | Bal. |
| Cr | 18.0–20.0 |
| Ni | 8.0–10.5 |
| Mn | ≤2.0 |
| Si | ≤1.0 |
| C | ≤0.08 |
Applicable specifications
AMS / ASTM / MIL.
- AMS 5513 (sheet/strip/plate)
- AMS 5639 (bar/wire/forgings)
- ASTM A276
- ASTM A479
- ASTM A240
Machining guidance
CNC parameters and tooling.
Coated carbide, sharp positive rake; avoid dwelling
Work-hardens aggressively but a touch easier than 316L — no molybdenum means cleaner chips and ~10–20% higher SFM. Sharp tools, deep DOC, constant feed; never rub. 303 (sulfur) or 304L-F free-machining variants cut faster but trade corrosion resistance.
Stock & cost
Forms and Q1 2026 pricing.
- Passivate (ASTM A967, AMS 2700) — coordinated outside
- Electropolish — coordinated outside
- Bead blast (matte)
- No.4 / brushed finish
Typical applications
Where 304 Stainless is the right pick.
- Food & beverage equipment
- Architectural hardware
- Fasteners
- Fabricated weldments
- Sinks & enclosures
Alternative materials
Substitute or upgrade options.
- 316L (more Mo, better Cl⁻ / marine resistance)
- 303 (free-machining, lower corrosion)
- Duplex 2205 (higher strength)
Digital Machine · Quick-Turn CNC · California
Machine your part in 304 Stainless.
Production CNC milling and turning. Confirm material, inspection and documentation requirements when requesting a quote.
Keep exploring
Related tools & references
Speeds, feeds, tooling, and chip strategy.
SFM, RPM, and feed rate for this material.
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Estimate part weight from 304 Stainless stock.
Aerospace specs that call out this alloy.