301 Stainless Steel Sheet — 0.01mm to 0.45mm Thin Metal Plate, Multiple Sizes

For light shielding, gaskets, or shimming, thicknesses of 0.01mm–0.05mm are typically sufficient. For structural brackets, enclosures, or load-bearing panels, 0.2mm–0.45mm is generally recommended. A good rule of thumb: measure the gap or load requirement first, then select the nearest available thickness. If you're replacing an existing shim or gasket, measure the original part with a micrometer before ordering.

Sheets are available in five width × length combinations: 100×100mm (≈3.9"×3.9"), 100×300mm (≈3.9"×11.8"), 100×500mm (≈3.9"×19.7"), 200×300mm (≈7.9"×11.8"), and 300×1000mm (≈11.8"×39.4"). To convert any dimension: divide mm by 25.4. For thickness: 0.1mm ≈ 0.004", 0.3mm ≈ 0.012", 0.45mm ≈ 0.018".

301 stainless steel generally offers higher tensile strength than annealed 304, particularly in work-hardened conditions where tensile strength can reach 1275 MPa or more. For thin-sheet applications like spring clips, flexible brackets, and snap-fit parts, 301 is typically a stronger choice than 304 at the same gauge. For heavy structural loads, thicker plate stock (generally >1mm) is recommended — these sheets are best suited for light-to-medium duty applications.

301 stainless steel provides good corrosion resistance in most indoor and mildly humid conditions. In most standard workshop, electronics, and light industrial environments, it performs reliably without surface treatment. For prolonged outdoor exposure, coastal environments, or direct contact with chlorides (salt water, pool chemicals), 316 stainless steel is generally a better choice. If you're unsure, contact us and we can advise on the right grade for your application.

These are flat blank sheets with no pre-drilled holes or threads. You can add holes to suit any standard fastener system — metric (M2, M3, M4, etc.) or imperial (UNC/UNF). For thin gauges (≤0.1mm), self-tapping screws, rivets, or adhesive bonding are commonly used. Thicker gauges (0.3mm–0.45mm) can accept tapped threads for small metric screws in most cases. Consult a thread engagement chart for your specific fastener size.

Yes, in most cases. Thinner gauges (0.01mm–0.1mm) can typically be cut with sharp metal shears, a utility knife and straightedge, or standard scissors for the very thinnest stock. Bending by hand or with pliers is generally straightforward at these gauges. Thicker sheets (0.2mm–0.45mm) usually require tin snips or a metal nibbler for cutting, and a bending brake or vise-and-mallet setup for accurate folds. Laser cutting and waterjet are also compatible with all gauges.

Choose 301 when you need higher strength, better spring-back, or a thinner sheet that still holds its shape under stress — common in clips, springs, flexible shims, and snap-fit enclosures. Choose 304 when corrosion resistance is the top priority and strength is secondary, or when you need to weld the sheet (304 is generally easier to weld). Both grades are non-magnetic in the annealed state, but 301 becomes slightly magnetic when work-hardened.