1/4 x 4 Stainless Steel Flat Bar 304

Product Overview
The ​304 stainless steel flat bar is a versatile and cost-effective austenitic alloy widely used in industrial, architectural, and consumer applications. Known for its excellent corrosion resistance, formability, and durability, ​304 stainless steel flat bar stock is ideal for environments with moderate exposure to chemicals, moisture, and temperature fluctuations.

​Technical Specifications

​Mechanical & Physical Properties

​Tensile Strength

The ​304 stainless steel flat bar delivers a ​tensile strength of 515 MPa (75 ksi), making it suitable for structural and load-bearing applications. This property ensures the material can withstand moderate mechanical stress without deformation, ideal for machinery frames, automotive components, and construction supports.

​Bend Strength

With a ​bend strength of 205 MPa (30 ksi), this alloy retains structural integrity during fabrication processes like bending or rolling. Its ductility allows for seamless shaping into angles, channels, or brackets, making it a preferred choice for architectural trim and industrial fixtures.

​Identification Marking

Each ​304 stainless steel flat bar stock is permanently marked with laser-etched identifiers, including the grade (e.g., “304” or “304L”) and batch numbers. This ensures traceability and compliance with standards like ASTM A276 and EN 10088-2, guaranteeing material authenticity.

​Weight Calculation

Calculate the weight of ​304 stainless steel flat bar stock using the formula:
Weight (kg/m) = Thickness (mm) × Width (mm) × 8.0 (density) / 1000
Example: A 10mm thick × 50mm wide bar weighs ​4.0 kg/m. This calculation aids in logistics planning and structural load estimations.

​Why Does Stainless Steel Rust?

While ​304 stainless steel flat bar offers good corrosion resistance, rust may occur under specific conditions:

1. ​Chloride Exposure: Prolonged contact with seawater, road salts, or bleach can degrade the passive chromium oxide layer.
2. ​Galvanic Corrosion: Contact with carbon steel, copper, or aluminum in humid or conductive environments.
3. ​Surface Contamination: Iron particles from tools or handling can embed into the surface, leading to rust spots.
4. ​High-Temperature Oxidation: Prolonged exposure above 400°C (750°F) may cause scaling.

Prevention Tips:

• Clean regularly with pH-neutral detergents.
• Apply passivation treatments to restore corrosion resistance.
• Avoid abrasive tools and cross-contamination during fabrication.

​Applications

• ​Architectural: Handrails, elevator panels, decorative trims.
• ​Food & Beverage: Processing equipment, storage tanks, conveyor systems.
• ​Industrial: Machinery frames, HVAC components, automotive parts.
• ​Consumer Goods: Kitchen appliances, sinks, furniture.

​Why Choose Our Stainless Steel Flat Bars?

1. ​Certified Quality:
   • Compliant with ​ASTM A276/A479 and ​EN 10088-2 standards.
   • Mill test reports (MTRs) provided for chemical and mechanical properties.
2. ​Custom Solutions:
   • Tailored ​304 stainless steel flat bar sizes, thicknesses, and finishes.
   • Precision CNC cutting, drilling, and polishing services.
3. ​Cost-Effective:
   • Competitive pricing with bulk order discounts.
   • Low MOQs for small businesses and prototypes.
4. ​Global Logistics:
   • Fast shipping via air, sea, or land with real-time tracking.
5. ​Technical Support:
   • Expert guidance on fabrication, welding, and maintenance.