304 Stainless Steel Sheet Metal Plate Thick 0.02-0.4mm Width 300mm Length 200mm

For shim applications under machine slides or bearing housings, thicknesses of 0.02–0.1 mm are typical; stack multiple sheets to reach the exact gap. For gaskets exposed to moderate clamping pressure, 0.1–0.3 mm is a common range. For structural backing plates or heat shields, 0.3–0.4 mm provides more rigidity. If you are unsure, measure the existing gap or consult your equipment's service manual for the specified shim tolerance.

304 stainless has a typical tensile strength of 515–720 MPa and a yield strength of at least 205 MPa, which is adequate for most shim and gasket duties where the sheet is loaded in compression rather than tension. It is not intended for structural members that carry bending or tensile loads across unsupported spans. For high-stress mechanical applications, consult an engineer to confirm the gauge and grade are appropriate.

304 stainless steel forms a self-repairing passive chromium-oxide layer that resists rust in most indoor and mildly humid outdoor conditions. It performs well against dilute acids, alkalis, and fresh water. However, it is not recommended for prolonged exposure to chloride-rich environments (such as salt spray or seawater) or strong oxidizing acids, where 316-grade stainless would be a better choice. For occasional moisture contact — such as plumbing gaskets or kitchen fixtures — 304 is generally sufficient.

Sheets at 0.1 mm and thinner can typically be cut with heavy-duty craft scissors, a sharp utility knife guided by a steel ruler, or aviation snips. Gauges from 0.12 mm to 0.3 mm respond well to aviation snips or bench shears. The 0.4 mm sheet is best cut with bench shears, an angle grinder with a thin cutting disc, or a laser/waterjet cutter for clean edges. Always wear cut-resistant gloves — freshly cut stainless edges are sharp.

Yes. 304 stainless steel is one of the most commonly laser-cut and waterjet-cut metals. Thin gauges (0.02–0.1 mm) are well-suited to fiber laser cutting with minimal heat distortion. Thicker gauges (0.15–0.4 mm) can be cut with either CO₂ or fiber lasers, or with a waterjet for burr-free edges. If you plan to send the sheet to a cutting service, the fixed 200 × 300 mm size fits within the working area of most desktop laser cutters.

A 0.02 mm difference is meaningful in precision applications. Use a micrometer to measure the gap or existing shim you are replacing. If the gap is exactly 0.1 mm, choose 0.1 mm; if it reads 0.11–0.12 mm, choose 0.12 mm. For non-critical uses such as craft inlays or decorative work, either thickness will perform identically and the choice can come down to price. When stacking multiple sheets, mixing gauges lets you hit intermediate targets (e.g., 0.1 + 0.02 = 0.12 mm).

TIG welding with 308L filler rod is the standard method for joining 304 stainless and works well on gauges 0.1 mm and above. MIG welding is possible on thicker gauges (0.2 mm+) but requires careful heat control to avoid burn-through on thin foil. Soldering with silver-bearing solder and an appropriate stainless flux is an option for very thin sheets where welding heat would cause distortion. Brazing with a nickel-silver alloy is also used in HVAC and refrigeration applications.