Type 304 stainless steel is used in enclosures, storage tanks, pressure vessels and tubing or piping. Type 304 stainless provides ease of fabrication and cleaning, prevention of product contamination and offers a variety of finishes. Type 304 proves to be resistant to oxidation and corrosion. Type 304, with its chromium-nickel content and low carbon, is the most versatile and commonly used of the austenitic stainless steels. The molybdenum is added to help resist corrosion. Depending on the environment the product will be used in and the desired mechanical properties needed for your specific application, one type may ultimately prove more advantageous over the other for your particular needs.From a chemical or scientific standpoint the answer would be that 304 stainless steel contains 18% chromium and 8% nickel while 316 contains 16% chromium, 10% nickel and 2% molybdenum. When choosing a type of stainless steel for your project or product design needs, it’s essential to consider the properties of both 403 and 304 steels before deciding. This is due to the higher percentage of carbon in 403 stainless steel, which makes it more difficult to produce. CostĤ03 stainless steel is more expensive than 304 stainless steel. This is due to the lower percentage of carbon in 403 stainless steel. StrengthĤ03 stainless steel is weaker than 304 stainless steel. This means it is more likely to warp or distort at high temperatures. Heat ResistanceĤ03 stainless steel has a lower heat resistance than 304 stainless steel. This is due to the higher percentage of chromium in 304 stainless steel. However, 304 stainless steel is better at resisting corrosion than 403 stainless steel.

Corrosion Resistanceīoth 403 and 304 stainless steel have good corrosion resistance. This makes welding more complex and can make the steel more brittle. 403 stainless steel contains a higher percentage of carbon than 304 stainless steel. The main difference between 403 and 304 stainless steel is the chemical composition. Difference Between 403 and 304 Stainless Steel Chemical Composition Each type should be chosen based on its intended application and environment to ensure maximum performance at minimum cost.

While both have similar levels of strength and hardness, they differ in machinability, weldability, corrosion resistance, heat resistance, and cost-effectiveness. The biggest difference between 403 and 304 stainless steel is their chemical composition and mechanical properties. Additionally, 304 stainless steel has excellent weldability due to its higher carbon content than 403 stainless steel. This combination creates a strong but malleable material that offers superior corrosion resistance even in harsh environments like saltwater or high-temperature applications like boilers or ovens. 304 Stainless Steelģ04 stainless steel is an austenitic alloy that contains nickel, chromium, and molybdenum. However, it can be difficult to weld because of its low carbon content. This type of steel also has excellent heat and wear resistance, making it ideal for use in high-temperature or corrosive environments. 403 Stainless SteelĤ03 stainless steel is a martensitic alloy with added sulfur, giving it improved machinability compared to other types of stainless steel. Let’s explore the differences between the two. The two most commonly used types of stainless steel are 403 and 304. But what exactly is stainless steel, and why is it so popular? Stainless steel is an alloy of iron, chromium, nickel, and other metals resistant to corrosion and other forms of deterioration. Many industries rely on stainless steel to manufacture their products.

304 stainless steel pipe