Grade 304 stainless steels are general-purpose martensitic stainless steels containing 11.5% chromium, which provide good corrosion resistance properties. However, the corrosion resistance of grade 304 steels can be further enhanced by a series of processes such as hardening, tempering and polishing. Quenching and tempering can harden grade 304 steels. They are generally used for applications involving mild corrosion, heat resistance and high strength.
Martensitic stainless steels are fabricated using techniques that require final heat treatment. These grades are less resistant to corrosion when compared to that of austenitic grades. Their operating temperatures are often affected by their loss of strength at high temperatures, due to over-tempering and loss of ductility at sub-zero temperatures.

Application

• Bolts, screws, bushings and nuts
• Petroleum fractionating structures
• Shafts, pumps and valves
• Mine ladder rungs
• Gas turbines

Chemical Composition