18/8 Stainless Steel vs. 304
Choosing the right raw material for your industry is crucial. When selecting the right steel for the industry, you must consider durability, corrosion resistance, and intrinsic properties. You can use our Custom Sheet Metal Fabrication Services. This article will compare 18/8 Stainless Steel vs. 304 and see which is ideal for your industry.
Stainless steel drill
Any grade of stainless steel that contains 18% chromium, 8% nickel, trace amounts of carbon, and 50–70% iron is referred to as 18/-8 stainless steel. Its corrosion resistance, strength, and versatility in fabrication distinguish it. Its austenitic structure retains its non-magnetic capacity. The most popular variety of 18/-8 stainless steel is 304.
Likewise, 304 stainless steel is a variation of 18/-8 stainless steel that contains extra components such as manganese and carbon. 304 stainless steel is an essential alloy renowned for its adaptability and durability.
It cannot be heat-hardened and is not magnetic. At ProleanTech, we provide top-quality customized stainless steel solutions for your industry needs. Prolean Tech – Your Custom Parts Provider
18/-8 Stainless Steel
We are talking about 18/-8 stainless steel vs. 304. As we just discussed, 18/-8 stainless steel is a generic phrase used to describe any grade of stainless steel with a composition of 8% nickel and 18% chromium. It may also contain traces of other elements, such as carbon and manganese.
The most common grade of 18/-8 stainless steel is 304. Its fabrication is crucial in providing itsit strength and durability. (Read Stainless Steel Fabrication: Everything You Need to Know.)
Stainless Steel 18/-8
It is well-known for its excellent corrosion resistance, durability, and ease of fabrication. There are various varieties of 18/-8 stainless steel, including 302, 303, and so on. Each variety has somewhat varied chemical structure and qualities, depending on the extra elements, such as manganese, carbon, and sulfur. CNC machining is used to ensure precision and efficiency. Find out more in our guide: 3-Axis vs 5-Axis CNC: Which One to Choose?
18/-8 Stainless Steel Composition
Let’s look at the properties of 18/-8 stainless steel materials. These properties are pretty much the same as 304 stainless steel. The physical properties of stainless steel, such as its high strength and durability, make it an ideal choice for many industries. Let’s look at 18/-8 stainless steel material properties that contribute to its strength and corrosion resistance.
| Element | Use in 18/-8 Stainless Steel |
| Chromium | 18-20 |
| Nickel | 8-10.5 |
| Manganese | 2 max |
| Carbon | 0.08 max |
| Sulfur | 0.03 max |
| Phosphorus | 0.045 max |
| Nitrogen | 0.1 max |
Stainless steel weight
Advantages of Stainless Steel 18/-8
The advantages of 18/-8 stainless steel are mentioned here:
Corrosion Resistance
18/-8 stainless steel is famous for its high corrosion resistance. It is ideal for a wide range of settings. The chromium in 18/-8 stainless steel forms a protective chromium oxide layer, preventing rust and corrosion. It prevents it from interacting with other materials.
Malleability
It is very malleable, ensuring that it can be readily carved, bent, stretched, and moulded into various dimensions and shapes without breaking. It’s a strong material that is resilient to impact and corrosion.
Additionally, its ability to retain its structure under extreme conditions makes it an excellent choice for a wide range of applications. It is an ideal choice for industries like automotive and healthcare.
It provides sustainable efficiency in the majority of environments. CNC machining is used to ensure precision and efficiency. Find out more in our guide: Why CNC Machining is Essential For Manufacturing?
Weldability
It has great weldability, which makes it perfect for manufacturing and construction. It supports TIG, MIG, and resistance welding methods and does not require preheating. Post-weld treatments can also improve corrosion resistance.
Attractive Appearance
18/-8 stainless steel has a smooth, polished appearance. It is resistant to fading and stains. This makes it suitable for construction, cookware, and ornamental purposes. The material retains its sleek and professional appearance over time.
304 Stainless Steel
304 stainless steel is a specific grade of 18/-8 stainless steel with a well-defined composition, offering enhanced corrosion resistance and mechanical properties. It is the most popular stainless steel grade globally. Chromium binds oxygen to the product’s surface, protecting the iron from rusting.
Stainless steel 304
Because of its unusual alloy composition, it is a highly adaptable stainless steel. It is appropriate for many uses, such as home appliances, food-processing machinery, and commercial applications. 304 stainless price may be slightly higher than grade 18/-8 due to its higher nickel use.
304 Stainless Steel Composition
In the composition of 304 steel, there is also the use of those elements that we have already seen in the other type. The slight difference is covered in the range given in the table. 304 stainless steel is widely used in precision machining and industrial applications. Learn more about Stainless Steel Machining: Process & ApplicationsStainless Steel Machining & Process Applications.
| Element | Use in 304 Stainless Steel |
| Chromium | 18-20 |
| Nickel | 8-10.5 |
| Manganese | 2 max |
| Carbon | 0.08 max |
| Sulfur | 0.03 max |
| Phosphorus | 0.045 max |
| Nitrogen | 0.1 max |
If you’re unsure which stainless steel type suits you, our experts are here to help. Contact Now and get Your Solutions
Stainless steel pipes
Advantages of Stainless Steel 304
The positives of 304 stainless steel are mentioned here:
High Corrosion Resistance and Reliability
Among 18 8 stainless steel vs 304, the latter contains a chromium oxide coating that reduces rusting and corrosion. It is capable of handling exposure to damp, acids, and salts. It makes it a perfect choice for rough environments.
Formability and Weldability
304 stainless steel has strong flexibility and may be readily formed without cracking. It allows a variety of welding techniques and retains its structural strength even at high temperatures. Stainless steel screws are also made out of steel 304, which is highly durable in itself.
Attractive Appearance
Its smooth, polished surface improves its visual appeal. Its protection against scratches and fading makes it visually appealing to the consumer. We also offer customized parts for your industry with suitable materials. Get a Custom Quote for your Project now.
Stainless steel bolts
CNC Machining parts are made by different manufacturers. If you need high-quality CNC-machined stainless steel parts, we are here. You can also explore our Why choose CNC Machining from China? to learn about the positives of sourcing them from China.
Conclusion – 18/-8 Stainless Steel Vs. 304
In this 18/8 stainless steel vs 304 stainless steel comparison, we discussed the similarities and differences. Both offer excellent corrosion resistance and durability that make them highly suitable for a variety of uses. 18/-8 stainless steel is often chosen for general-purpose applications due to its versatility.
On the other hand, 304 stainless steel provides enhanced resistance to corrosion in harsh environments. Both materials are reliable choices for sectors like food processing, aerospace, automotive, and medical equipment.
At ProleanTech, we provide high-quality CNC-machined stainless steel parts tailored to your needs. Whether you need 18/-8 or 304 stainless steel, our precision machining services ensure top performance and reliability. Contact us today to learn more about how we can assist with your next project. You can also explore our CNC Machining Services today.
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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Is stainless steel safe?
Yes, stainless steel is non-hazardous, corrosion-resistant, and commonly used in the food and medical industries.
What is 18/8 stainless steel?
18/8 stainless steel includes 18% chromium and 8% nickel, making it corrosion-resistant and long-lasting.
Is 18/-8 the same as 304?
304 stainless steel is a form of 18/-8 stainless steel; however, not all 18/-8 stainless steel is 304.
Is stainless steel 304 magnetic?
304 stainless steel is typically nonmagnetic. However, it can become somewhat magnetic, resulting in cold working.
Do stainless steel screws rust?
Stainless steel screws are resistant to rust. However, prolonged exposure to severe chloride conditions can induce corrosion.
Is 304 stainless steel better than 18/8?
Yes, 304 stainless steel is more corrosion-resistant due to higher quality standards.
What is the disadvantage of 18/8 stainless steel?
It is less corrosion-resistant than 304 and may not work well in severely acidic or salty situations.
Is 18-10 stainless steel 304 or 316?
18-10 stainless steel is commonly 316 stainless steel, with greater nickel content and superior anti-corrosion properties.
What are the disadvantages of 304 stainless steel?
It is subject to corrosion in chloride-rich conditions and costs more than 18/-8 stainless steel.
Does 18/8 stainless steel leach?
No, 18/8 stainless steel is not reactive and doesn’t leach hazardous chemicals under normal conditions.
Is 18/8 stainless steel good for silverware?
Yes, it is often used in silverware because of its durability, resistance to corrosion, and shiny look.
What is the best version of stainless steel?
Because of its molybdenum concentration, 316 stainless steel is believed to be ideal for high-corrosion conditions.
Is 18/-8 stainless steel safe for drinking?
Yes, 18/-8 stainless steel is safe and suitable for drinking water and drinks.
Is 18 8 stainless steel magnetic?
No, 18/-8 stainless steel does not possess magnetic properties. However, it can become magnetic under certain circumstances.
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