18 Ga Stainless Steel Polished Sheet 304

(Hot Rolled & Cold Rolled Options)

​Introduction to Stainless Steel Polished Sheet 304

304 mirror polished stainless steel sheet is a premium material combining durability, corrosion resistance, and aesthetic appeal. Part of the 300-series austenitic stainless steels, it features 18% chromium, 8% nickel, and trace carbon, making it ideal for industries requiring both industrial strength and decorative finishes. This product page delves into its technical specifications, mechanical properties, polishing processes, and why it stands out as a cost-effective solution for architects, engineers, and manufacturers.

Key Benefits:

• ​Mirror-like finish for automotive, hospitality, and architectural applications.
• ​Superior corrosion resistance against atmospheric conditions and mild chemicals.
• ​Easy maintenance with a self-healing chromium oxide layer.
• ​Versatility in hot rolled and cold rolled formats for diverse projects.

Discover how ​polished stainless steel sheet metal can elevate your designs with precision, durability, and elegance.

​Technical Specifications & Manufacturing Attributes

Compare hot rolled and cold rolled ​304 mirror polished stainless steel sheet specifications in the table below:

​Mechanical Properties & Performance Deep Dive

​1. Tensile Strength & Bending Strength

Tensile Strength: Ranging from 520 to 700 MPa, ​polished stainless steel sheet metal ensures robust performance in high-stress environments like bridges or industrial machinery. Its ductility prevents brittle failure, making it suitable for load-bearing structures.

Bending Strength: With 400–600 MPa, this material maintains structural integrity during repeated flexing, ideal for automotive body panels, elevator doors, or aerospace components. The high nickel content enhances formability and reduces springback.

​2. Weight Calculation Guide

Calculating the weight of ​304 mirror polished stainless steel sheet is essential for logistics and cost planning. The formula used is:
Weight (kg/m2)=Conversion FactorDensity×Thickness​
Density = 8050 kg/m³, Conversion Factor = 10⁶ mm²/m².
Example: A 2mm-thick cold rolled sheet weighs approximately 16.1 kg/m².

​3. Rust Resistance Mechanism

The corrosion resistance of ​polished stainless steel sheet metal relies on its passive chromium oxide layer (Cr₂O₃), which forms spontaneously upon exposure to air or water. However, rust can occur under:

• ​Extreme pH Levels: Exposure to concentrated acids or alkalines.
• ​High-Temperature Oxidation: Above 1000°C, even with polishing.
• ​Mechanical Damage: Scratches or cuts that expose bare metal.

Prevention Strategies:

• Regular cleaning with pH-neutral detergents.
• Avoiding contact with bleach or corrosive chemicals.
• Applying protective coatings for decorative elements.

​4. Identification & Certification

Proper identification ensures material traceability. Methods include:

• ​Grade Marking: “304” or “X2CrNi18/10” stamped on sheets.
• ​Chemical Analysis: Spectroscopy verifies chromium, nickel, and carbon levels.
• ​Hardness Testing: Rockwell B scale confirms compliance with polished finish standards.
• ​Certifications: ISO 9001, ASTM A240, and REACH certifications guarantee quality.

​Polishing Processes: Achieving Mirror-Finish Excellence

How to Polish Stainless Steel Sheet Metal?
Our polishing process transforms raw sheets into glossy, reflective surfaces through precision steps:

1. ​Hot Rolling: Heating to 1100°C and rolling to achieve uniform thickness and remove imperfections.
2. ​Annealing: Heating at 1050°C to relieve internal stresses and improve machinability.
3. ​Cold Rolling: Precision rolling to achieve tight tolerances and a smooth base for polishing.
4. ​Polishing:
   • ​Mechanical Polishing: Using abrasive belts (from #400 to #2000 grit) for a matte finish.
   • ​Electrochemical Polishing: For ultra-smooth mirror finishes (Ra ≤ 0.1 μm) in sensitive industries.

Key Advantages:

• ​Aesthetic Appeal: Perfect for façades, countertops, and automotive trim.
• ​Hygiene: Smooth surfaces resist bacteria buildup in food-processing equipment.
• ​Durability: Enhanced resistance to wear and tear in high-traffic areas.

​Applications Across Industries

• ​Architecture: Glass curtain walls, decorative cladding, and stair railings.
• ​Automotive: Car body panels, exhaust systems, and interior trim.
• ​Food & Beverage: Sanitary tanks, conveyor belts, and kitchen countertops.
• ​Marine: Boat hulls, propellers, and saltwater-resistant piping.
• ​Energy: Solar panel frames, wind turbine casings, and nuclear reactor linings.

​Why Choose Our Stainless Steel Polished Sheet 304?

1. ​Premium Quality Control: Each sheet undergoes 100% visual inspection and hardness testing.
2. ​Customization Options: Tailored polishing grades, sizes, and certifications (e.g., FDA, marine-grade).
3. ​Competitive Pricing: Bulk discounts and nationwide distribution networks.
4. ​Sustainable Practices: Eco-friendly production and 100% recyclable materials.
5. ​Expert Support: Technical guidance and after-sales service for complex projects.

​Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: How does polished stainless steel sheet 304 differ from unpolished sheets?
A: Polished sheets have a mirror-like finish (Ra ≤ 0.4 μm) and enhanced aesthetic appeal, while unpolished sheets offer higher friction resistance for industrial applications.

Q: Can ​304 mirror polished stainless steel sheet** be welded?**
A: Yes, but use low-carbon electrodes to avoid sensitization. Post-welding annealing is recommended for optimal performance.

Q: What’s the maximum thickness for cold rolled polished sheet 304?
A: Typically 2mm, but custom orders up to 5mm are available.

Q: How to restore shine to scratched polished stainless steel?
A: Use mild abrasives (e.g., #2000 grit) and polish with a cloth soaked in vinegar-water solution.

​Conclusion

304 mirror polished stainless steel sheet is the ideal choice for projects demanding both strength and beauty. Whether you need polished stainless steel sheet metal for a luxury hotel facade or industrial machinery, our product delivers unparalleled performance. Partner with us to leverage our technical expertise, quality assurance, and innovative solutions for your next project.