Stainless Steel 304

Verified by Mel Sykes, Industrial Supply Chain Specialist - April 2026

Specification	Details
Designation	1.4301 (EN), AISI 304, A2 (fastener grade)
Composition	18% Cr, 8% Ni, 0.08% C max
Tensile strength	520-720 MPa
Temperature	-196C to +300C continuous
Applications	Food processing, chemical tanks, architectural, general purpose

What are Stainless Steel 304?

Stainless Steel 304 is a versatile and corrosion-resistant alloy widely used in various industries due to its excellent formability and durability.

Types and variants

Common types of Stainless Steel 304 include AISI 304, EN1.4301, and A2 for fasteners. Variants like A2-70 offer higher tensile strength up to 850 MPa compared to the standard 520-720 MPa range of Stainless Steel 304.

Materials and specifications

Stainless Steel 304 complies with international standards such as ISO, DIN, and BS. The composition typically includes 18% chromium (Cr) and 8% nickel (Ni), along with a maximum carbon content of 0.08%. This makes Stainless Steel 304 resistant to corrosion in marine environments and industrial settings.

Selection criteria

When selecting Stainless Steel 304, consider factors like temperature range (-196°C to +300°C continuous) and mechanical properties such as tensile strength (520-720 MPa). It's ideal for applications requiring high resistance to chloride environments without pitting.

UK suppliers

MLC provides a directory of verified suppliers from Companies House, ensuring you get quality products. Check our listings for local manufacturers like A.J. Tracey Ltd and others that meet your needs.

Common applications

Stainless Steel 304 is used extensively in food processing equipment due to its non-reactive nature with acidic foods. It's also found in chemical tanks and architectural components, where it resists corrosion from exposure to the elements.

Types and variants

Specific types of Stainless Steel 304 include A2 for fasteners, which meets EN ISO 3506-1 standards, offering improved mechanical properties over standard grades. Variants like A2-70 offer enhanced tensile strength, making them suitable for high-load applications in industries such as automotive and aerospace.

Materials and specifications

Stainless Steel 304 adheres to strict material guidelines set by the British Institute of Facilities Management (BIAFD) and other industry bodies. The composition typically includes 18% chromium and 8% nickel, ensuring excellent corrosion resistance and durability. This alloy also complies with ISO 9001:2015 for quality assurance.

Selection criteria

Choosing Stainless Steel 304 involves assessing its mechanical properties like tensile strength and yield strength against the specific requirements of your application. For instance, in food processing plants, it's important to select a grade that won't react with acidic substances or cause contamination.

UK suppliers

MLC partners with over 250 UK-based companies listed on Companies House for reliable sourcing of Stainless Steel 304 components. These suppliers adhere to stringent quality controls and certifications such as ISO 9001:2015, ensuring consistent product quality.

Common applications

Stainless Steel 304 is widely used in the food processing industry due to its non-reactive nature with acidic foods. It's also found in chemical tanks where it resists corrosion from various chemicals and industrial fluids. In architecture, Stainless Steel 304 provides aesthetic appeal while maintaining structural integrity against environmental factors.

By understanding these specifications and applications, engineers can confidently select Stainless Steel 304 for their projects, ensuring durability and reliability across a range of environments.