304 Stainless Metric Shafting (ASTM A276, ASTM A479)

304 Stainless Steel is the most common and versatile austenitic stainless alloy.

• Key Benefit (Corrosion Resistance): The high Chromium content provides excellent resistance to rust in general atmospheric conditions, mild acids, and chemical environments. This makes it ideal for food, dairy, and pharmaceutical industries (sanitary applications).
• Mechanical Properties: It offers good strength, ductility, and toughness. The typical ultimate tensile strength is typically around 75,000 psi.
• Heat Treatment: Unlike 4140, 304 stainless steels cannot be hardened by heat treatment (Quenching and Tempering). Its strength is typically achieved through cold working (drawing or rolling).
• Dimensional Units: The diameters are specified in millimeters (mm) and ordered on the minus side of the nominal size.
• Tolerance/Finish: Like the imperial TGP (Turned, Ground, & Polished) shafts, metric stainless shafts are often supplied in a highly finished state (e.g., Precision Ground) to achieve tight tolerances.

A 304 Stainless Metric Shaft is chosen when a shaft requires both corrosion resistance and precise dimensions:

• Food & Beverage: Mixer shafts, conveyor rollers, and equipment subject to wash-down procedures.
• Marine & Outdoor: Components exposed to water, moisture, or mild salt spray (though 316 is often preferred for seawater).
• Chemical/Pharmaceutical: Parts in processing equipment that handle non-aggressive chemicals.