304 Stainless Steel Tubing

304 stainless steel tubing is a type of stainless steel tubing that is made from an alloy primarily composed of chromium and nickel. It is one of the most common grades of stainless steel and is known for its excellent corrosion resistance, durability, and versatility.

 

The "304" in its name refers to the specific composition of the alloy, which typically contains around 18% chromium and 8% nickel. This combination of metals gives 304 stainless steel its corrosion resistance and makes it suitable for a wide range of applications, including:

 

Food and beverage processing: 304 stainless steel is commonly used in the production of food processing equipment and storage tanks due to its hygienic properties and resistance to corrosion from acidic or salty foods.

 

Chemical processing: Its resistance to corrosion from a wide range of chemicals makes it suitable for use in chemical processing plants.

 

Medical equipment: Some medical devices and equipment are made from 304 stainless steel because of its biocompatibility and resistance to corrosion from bodily fluids.

 

Automotive: Parts and components in automotive applications, such as exhaust systems and trim, often use 304 stainless steel due to its corrosion resistance and aesthetic appeal.

 

Construction: It's also used in architectural applications such as handrails, balustrades, and facades due to its durability and resistance to atmospheric corrosion.

 

Piping and tubing: 304 stainless steel tubing is commonly used in plumbing, HVAC systems, and other applications where corrosion resistance and strength are important.

 

What is the strength of 304 stainless steel tube?

The strength of 304 stainless steel tube can vary depending on factors such as the manufacturing process, the specific grade of stainless steel, and any heat treatment it undergoes. However, in general, 304 stainless steel is known for its excellent combination of strength and corrosion resistance.

 

Typically, 304 stainless steel has a tensile strength of around 515 megapascals (MPa) and a yield strength of about 205 MPa. These values can vary slightly depending on factors such as the diameter and thickness of the tube, as well as any additional treatments or processes it undergoes.

 

304 Stainless Steel Tube sizes

304 stainless steel tubes come in a wide range of sizes to accommodate various applications. The sizes typically vary in terms of outer diameter (OD), wall thickness, and length. These tubes can be found in standard dimensions or customized to specific needs.

 

Here’s a list of common 304 stainless steel tube sizes:

 

 1. Outer Diameter (OD) Range:
   - Small Diameter Tubes: 1/16 inch (1.59 mm) to 1 inch (25.4 mm)
   - Medium Diameter Tubes: 1 inch (25.4 mm) to 4 inches (101.6 mm)
   - Large Diameter Tubes: 4 inches (101.6 mm) to 12 inches (304.8 mm) and above

 

 2. Wall Thickness:
   - Thin-Walled Tubes: 0.01 inch (0.25 mm) to 0.08 inch (2 mm)
   - Medium-Walled Tubes: 0.08 inch (2 mm) to 0.16 inch (4 mm)
   - Thick-Walled Tubes: 0.16 inch (4 mm) to 0.25 inch (6.35 mm) or more

 

 3. Common Standard Sizes:
   - 1/8 inch OD x 0.035 inch wall
   - 1/4 inch OD x 0.049 inch wall
   - 1/2 inch OD x 0.065 inch wall
   - 1 inch OD x 0.083 inch wall
   - 2 inch OD x 0.120 inch wall
   - 3 inch OD x 0.120 inch wall

 

 4. Length:
   - Standard lengths: 6 meters (20 feet), 12 meters (40 feet)
   - Custom lengths: Available upon request

 

 5. Types of Tubing:
   - Seamless Tubes: Manufactured without a seam or weld, providing higher strength and corrosion resistance.
   - Welded Tubes: Produced by welding the edges of a flat steel strip, generally more economical than seamless.

 

 6. Applications:
   - Small Diameter: Ideal for medical devices, instrumentation, and heat exchangers.
   - Medium Diameter: Commonly used in structural components, process piping, and automotive parts.
   - Large Diameter: Used in industrial piping, chemical processing, and structural engineering.