Stainless Steel Flat Bar Plate Grade 304 Various Size & Length 100/200/300/500mm

304 contains 18% chromium and 8% nickel, giving good general corrosion resistance for indoor, food-contact, and light outdoor use. 316 adds 2–3% molybdenum, which significantly improves resistance to chloride pitting — making it the preferred choice for marine, coastal, and chemical environments. For most workshop, kitchen, and architectural applications, 304 is sufficient and more cost-effective.

3 mm flat bar suits light-duty brackets, spacers, and decorative trim where loads are minimal. 4–5 mm is appropriate for medium-duty shelf brackets, gate hinges, and structural ties. 6–8 mm handles heavier structural gussets, machinery mounts, and load-bearing plates. When in doubt, calculate the expected bending moment and compare against the yield strength of 304 (typically 205 MPa minimum) for the cross-section you select.

Yes. 304 stainless can be welded to mild steel using a 309L filler wire, which bridges the compositional difference between the two alloys. When welding 304 to 304, use 308L filler. After welding, remove heat tint by pickling or mechanical finishing, then passivate to restore corrosion resistance. Avoid welding near galvanised steel without adequate ventilation.

An angle grinder with a stainless-rated cutting disc (look for "inox" on the disc label) is the most common workshop method. A cold saw or metal-cutting bandsaw gives cleaner, burr-free cuts. For thin bars (3–4 mm), a hacksaw with a fine-tooth bi-metal blade works well. Always use cutting fluid when drilling to prevent work-hardening and extend bit life. Avoid using discs or blades previously used on carbon steel to prevent contamination.

304 is corrosion-resistant but not fully immune. In clean outdoor environments with regular rainfall to rinse the surface, it performs well for many years. In coastal areas, industrial atmospheres with chloride or sulphur compounds, or where the bar is in contact with standing water, surface staining or pitting can develop over time. For those environments, 316-grade bar is the more appropriate choice. Regular cleaning with a mild detergent extends service life in borderline conditions.

The variant is expressed as Thickness × Width × Length in mm. For example, "5 x 30 x 300mm" means 5 mm thick, 30 mm wide, and 300 mm long. Match these dimensions to your cutting list before ordering. If you need a size not listed, the bar can be cut down further using standard metalworking tools after delivery.

304 stainless steel is widely used in food-contact applications and meets the compositional requirements of most food-grade standards. It is non-reactive with most foods and easy to clean. For applications involving prolonged contact with salt brines, acidic marinades, or chlorinated cleaning agents, 316 grade is preferred. Always verify compliance with the specific food safety standard applicable in your jurisdiction before use in commercial catering equipment.