UNS S30409 / AISI304H Stainless Steel Pipe SCH40S SCH80S SS Pipe
Tube Alloy 304H Pipes
What is a 304h stainless steel pipe?
304H stainless steel pipe is a ferrite-austenite stainless steel
alloy with a higher carbon content than the standard 304 grade. It
provides superior strength and has excellent resistance to chloride
stress corrosion cracking, crevice corrosion, intergranular
corrosion, and pitting. The mechanical properties of this alloy
make it particularly well suited for cryogenic applications and
high-temperature service up to 870°C (1600°F). Furthermore, its
toughness makes it suitable for use in structural applications.
Elongation and tensile strength are also good so this grade can
tolerate cold-forming operations better than other austenitic
grades. Because of its various properties, 304H is seen across
numerous industries, from food processing equipment to oil refinery
parts.
Properties of 304H Stainless Steel Pipe
The main difference between 304 and 304H stainless steel is their
carbon content. While 304 contains a maximum of 0.08% carbon, 304H
has a carbon content of 0.04-0.10%. This higher carbon content
gives 304H better high-temperature strength and creep resistance
than 304. Other properties of 304H stainless steel include good
weldability, formability, and corrosion resistance. It can be
welded using all common methods, including TIG, MIG, and stick
welding.
Applications of 304H Stainless Steel Pipe
Due to its high-temperature strength and creep resistance,
304H stainless steel pipe is commonly used in high-temperature applications, such as:
Boilers and heat exchangers:
304H’s ability to withstand high temperatures and pressure make it
a popular choice for manufacturing boilers and heat exchangers used
in chemical processing plants, refineries, and other industrial
settings.
Power generation:
304H makes piping systems and components in power plants that
generate electricity from nuclear, coal, and natural gas.
Chemical processing:
304H is resistant to harsh chemicals and acidic environments,
making it a common material in chemical processing plants.
Oil and gas:
304H is used in oil refineries, offshore drilling platforms, and
pipelines for transportation.
Food and beverage industry:
Stainless steel is a popular material for food and beverage
processing equipment because it’s easy to clean, hygienic, and
doesn’t react with acidic or alkaline foods.
Types of 304H Stainless Steel Pipe
304H stainless steel pipe comes in two main types:
seamless and welded. Seamless pipes are made by piercing a solid
steel billet, while welded pipes are made by combining two or more
pieces of steel. Seamless pipes are more expensive than welded
pipes, but they are stronger and have a higher resistance to
pressure and temperature.
Another way to categorize 304H stainless steel pipes is by their
schedule. The schedule refers to the thickness of the wall of a
pipe. The most common schedules for 304H pipes are Schedule 10, 40,
80, and 160. Schedule 10 is the thinnest, while Schedule 160 is the
thickest.
