304 stainless steel is a commonly used grade of austenitic stainless steel that is widely used for fasteners due to its excellent corrosion resistance, high strength, and good formability. It contains a minimum of 18% chromium and 8% nickel, and a maximum of 0.08% carbon.
304 stainless steel fasteners are commonly used in a wide range of applications including industrial machinery, automotive, construction, and marine applications. They are often used in corrosive environments such as saltwater, acidic or alkaline solutions, and chemical processing plants. 304 stainless steel is resistant to corrosion from most oxidizing acids and is also resistant to corrosion from atmospheric conditions such as humidity, making it ideal for outdoor applications.
One of the advantages of 304 stainless steel is that it can be easily fabricated and formed into a variety of shapes and sizes. It is also non-magnetic and has good welding properties, which makes it ideal for fastener applications.
However, it is important to note that 304 stainless steel has a lower temperature resistance compared to other austenitic stainless steel grades, such as 316. Therefore, it is not recommended for use in high-temperature applications exceeding 870°C (1600°F).
Overall, 304 stainless steel is a versatile and widely used material for fasteners due to its excellent corrosion resistance, strength, and formability. It is important to select the appropriate grade of stainless steel for the specific application to ensure optimal performance and durability.
