Explore 304 Stainless Steel Pipes: Structure, classification, and characteristics.

What is 304 Stainless Steel Pipe? How many types are there and what are their characteristics?** These are common questions when users learn about stainless steel for industrial and daily applications. However, not everyone knows that 304 stainless steel comes in several variants, each with distinct properties. In this article, we will delve into the most common types of 304 stainless steel on the market and their outstanding advantages.

1. What is 304 Stainless Steel Pipe?

304 stainless steel, also known as SUS 304 stainless steel pipe, is an alloy of steel containing at least 18% chromium (a key component that determines the hardness of stainless steel) and 8% nickel, along with small amounts of manganese, silicon, phosphorus, etc. This type of stainless steel belongs to the austenitic group and has the ability to withstand harsh environmental conditions such as high temperatures, chemical exposure, and high humidity.

304 Stainless Steel Pipe

304 stainless steel pipe is the most commonly used type of stainless steel pipe today. This type of stainless steel is applied in almost all household items around you, such as: pots, pans, cookware, spoons, forks, tables, chairs, and decorative items.

⇒ Read more: Stainless Steel Pipe 201 and 304: Which is Better?

2. Characteristics of 304 Stainless Steel Pipe

304 stainless steel pipe has become a top choice in various industries, from heavy industry and construction to interior decoration, thanks to its many outstanding advantages such as corrosion resistance, heat resistance, and ease of fabrication. Specifically:

• Excellent Corrosion Resistance: 304 stainless steel pipe can resist corrosion from environmental factors such as water, air, and many mild chemicals.
• High Durability: Due to its alloy composition, with around 18% chromium and 8% nickel, 304 stainless steel is highly durable and does not deform under normal mechanical or thermal conditions.
• Ease of Fabrication: 304 stainless steel can be easily cut, bent, and welded without losing its physical properties, making it widely used in industrial, construction, and interior decoration applications.
• Bright, Polished Surface: For decorative purposes, 304 stainless steel pipes have a smooth, shiny surface, providing high aesthetic value, which makes them suitable for architectural and decorative applications.
• Good Heat Resistance: 304 stainless steel pipes can withstand temperatures up to approximately 870-925°C without deformation or loss of physical properties, making them suitable for applications requiring heat resistance.

304 Stainless Steel Ornamental Pipe Used for Railings

3.Types of 304 Stainless Steel Pipes on the Market

3.1. Based on Composition

304 stainless steel pipes can be classified into three types based on their carbon content: standard 304 stainless steel, 304L stainless steel, and 304H stainless steel. Specifically:

304 stainless steel pipes

The standard 304 stainless steel pipe contains no more than 0.08% carbon and approximately 18% chromium and 8% nickel. This type of stainless steel is widely used in both domestic and industrial applications due to its versatility and high durability.

304L Stainless Steel Pipe (L = Low)

304L stainless steel pipe has a lower carbon content, around 0.03%, compared to standard 304. This allows 304L to remain in a “welded” state even in highly corrosive environments.

304H Stainless Steel Pipe (H = High)

304H stainless steel pipe has a higher carbon content, ranging from 0.04% to 0.10%. As a result, 304H can withstand temperatures above 427°C, making it ideal for applications that require high temperature resistance and durability in harsh conditions.

3.2. Based on Purpose of Use

Industrial 304 Stainless Steel Pipe

This type of pipe is designed for heavy industries such as oil and gas, chemicals, and food production. Industrial 304 stainless steel pipes are highly durable, have excellent pressure resistance, and offer superior corrosion resistance in harsh environments.

Son Ha SSP Industrial 304 Stainless Steel Pipe

Ornamental 304 Stainless Steel Pipe

With its shiny surface, flexibility, and ease of fabrication, ornamental 304 stainless steel pipe is often used in architectural and interior design projects, railings, and products that require high aesthetic appeal. Additionally, the rust resistance of 304 stainless steel ensures long-lasting durability, even for outdoor structures.

Son Ha SSP Ornamental 304 Stainless Steel Pipe with a Polished Finish up to 600 Grit

Trusted Supplier of Quality 304 Stainless Steel Pipes

Son Ha SSP is a reliable provider, specializing in supplying 304 stainless steel pipes with a wide variety of models and superior quality, meeting all customer requirements.

Our products are guaranteed as follows:

• For Son Ha SSP Industrial Pipes: Meeting standards such as ASTM A312, ASTM A778, JIS G3459, and DIN EN 10217-7. In addition, Son Ha SSP industrial pipes hold a PED CERTIFICATION—AN INTERNATIONALLY RECOGNIZED CERTIFICATION FOR TOP-QUALITY STAINLESS STEEL PIPES—ensuring durability, corrosion resistance, and excellent performance under all usage conditions.
• For Son Ha SSP Ornamental Pipes: Meeting ASTM A554, DIN EN 10296-2, and JIS G3448 standards. Son Ha SSP ornamental stainless steel pipes feature a polished finish with a shine of up to 600 Grit, making them ideal for interior and exterior decoration as well as household product manufacturing.

In addition, we offer the following services:

• Fast and safe delivery, ensuring both quantity and quality.
• Customized production based on specific customer requirements.
• A dedicated and professional team ready to assist customers from consultation to delivery.

Contact Son Ha SSP today via our Hotline 1800 6566 for free consultation and to receive the earliest quotation on 304 stainless steel pipes!