CNC Machining with Stainless Steel 303 and 304

  • Date:
  • Views:6
  • Source:Axom



In the world of precision manufacturing, material selection is paramount. For components requiring excellent corrosion resistance and good mechanical properties, Stainless Steel 303 and 304 are two of the most frequently specified grades. Understanding their distinct characteristics is crucial for optimizing your CNC machining projects for performance, cost, and manufacturability.


cnc machining center
Stainless Steel 304: The Versatile Workhorse

SS 304 is the most widely used austenitic stainless steel. Its excellent forming and welding characteristics, coupled with outstanding corrosion resistance in a wide range of environments, make it a versatile choice. It performs exceptionally well in applications involving exposure to chemicals, food processing equipment (it's often foodgrade), and architectural components. From complex brackets to fluid system parts, 304 is a reliable and readily available material. However, its relative softness and tendency to workharden can pose challenges during machining, requiring sharp tools, rigid setups, and appropriate coolants to achieve optimal surface finishes and tool life.

Stainless Steel 303: The Machinability Champion

SS 303 was specifically developed to improve upon the machinability of 304. The addition of sulfur creates small inclusions in the steel that break up chips more easily, resulting in superior machining characteristics. This leads to faster production speeds, improved surface finishes, and significantly extended tool life, which directly translates to lower machining costs for highvolume runs. It shares good corrosion resistance with 304, though the sulfur addition makes it slightly less resistant and generally not recommended for welding. SS 303 is the ideal choice for highvolume production of screws, nuts, shafts, and gears where excellent machinability is the primary driver.

cnc machining online

Choosing the Right Grade for Your Project

The choice between 303 and 304 hinges on your project's priorities:


Choose SS 304 when your primary needs are superior corrosion resistance, weldability, and formability. It is the default for applications where longterm durability in corrosive environments is critical.
Choose SS 303 when you need to massproduce parts with complex geometries and require maximum machining efficiency, reduced cycle times, and lower perpart cost, with good enough corrosion resistance for many industrial and consumer applications.

Partner with a Precision Machining Expert

Navigating these material subtleties is key to a successful project. Our company specializes in providing onestop CNC machining solutions. We possess the technical expertise to machine both 303 and 304 stainless steel efficiently, advising you on the optimal grade for your specific application to ensure durability, functionality, and costeffectiveness. Let us help you turn your designs into highquality, precisionmachined reality.