Stainless steel is one of the most commonly used materials in different industries thanks to its durable nature and resistance to corrosion. Despite its popularity, some people still need help selecting the best type of stainless steel. That’s where the question of 304 vs. 307 stainless steel comes in. In this blog post, we’ll explore the differences between these two types of stainless steel to help you make an informed decision.
Difference Between Stainless Steel 304 and 307
Chemical Composition:
The main difference between Stainless Steel 304 and 307 is their chemical composition. 304 stainless steel is an austenitic grade of stainless steel, which implies it contains at least 18% chromium and 8% nickel, making it highly corrosion-resistant. On the other hand, 307 stainless steel is a low-carbon version of 304 stainless steel with additional alloying elements like manganese and silicon. This creates a less brittle and more ductile stainless steel.
Tensile Strength
Tensile strength is an essential factor in determining the resistance of a material to deformation or breakage due to external forces. The tensile strength of 304 stainless steel is 515 MPa or 74,700 psi, while 307 stainless steel has a much lower tensile strength of 410 MPa or 59,500 psi.
Applications:
Stainless Steel 304 is widely used in various applications, including food processing, chemical processing, and laboratory environments. It is also commonly used in producing construction materials, automotive parts, and kitchen utensils due to its outstanding anti-corrosive properties. On the other hand, 307 stainless steel is often used in niche applications that require specific additional properties. It is commonly used to make screws, nuts, and bolts for construction purposes.
Magnetic Properties:
Another notable difference between 304 and 307 stainless steel is their magnetic properties. While 304 stainless steel is non-magnetic, meaning it cannot be magnetized, 307 stainless steel is slightly magnetic. This magnetism comes from the presence of iron in its chemical composition.
Cost:
Cost is always a factor in material selection since it directly affects the bottom-line cost of any project. 304 stainless steel is more expensive than 307 stainless steel due to its higher chromium and nickel content. Additionally, its wide range of applications and the ease of procurement contribute to its higher cost.
Conclusion:
In conclusion, deciding between Stainless Steel 304 and 307 depends on your application requirements. If you require high anti-corrosive properties and a wider range of applications, 304 stainless steel is the better choice. However, if you’re in construction and require nuts, bolts, and screws, 307 stainless steel is the most appropriate. This blog post provides the information you need to select the right stainless steel.