304 stainless steel is the most common type of austenitic stainless steel. It is often processed into bar form, with round bars and square bars being the most popular. China is the largest producer and supplier of stainless steel in the world. The country has a large production capacity and a full industrial chain. It also has very competitive prices. These strengths give a stable supply of 304 stainless steel in many specifications. So China is an important supply center for the global market.
304 stainless steel bar is one of the most common raw materials in machining and manufacturing. It meets the needs of most applications, and it is a cost-effective option. The bar has strong corrosion resistance in many environments. It resists damage in air and in chemical media. It also resists attack from organic substances like food, dairy products, and beer. The material has good strength at room temperature and good toughness at low temperatures. A hot-rolled bar has a tensile strength of at least 515 MPa. It has a yield strength of at least 205 MPa. It has an elongation of at least 40%. It can be strengthened through cold working.
| Characteristics | 304 Stainless Steel | 316不锈钢 |
| Key Components | Cr (18%), Ni (8%) | Cr (16-18%), Ni (10-12%), Mo (2-3%) |
| Corrosion Resistance | Excellent, suitable for most common environments | Even better, the addition of Mo significantly improves resistance to chloride pitting and crevice corrosion |
| Main Applications | Daily life, food industry, chemical industry (mild media), and architectural decoration. | Marine environments, coastal areas, chemical processing, papermaking, and pharmaceuticals (higher corrosion resistance requirements). |
| Cost | Cost-effective, more economical. | Higher price due to the addition of molybdenum and higher nickel content. |
| Weldability | Excellent | Excellent, more stable post-weld performance. |
The round bar has a circular cross-section. This shape is good for machining processes like turning, milling, and grinding. It is used to make precision parts that rotate. Examples are shafts, connecting rods, bolts, piston rods, automotive parts, and medical device components.
The square bar has a right-angled cross-section. The shape gives stability and flat contact surfaces. It also makes alignment easy in construction and welding. The square bar is used for machine guards, equipment bases, workbench frames, railings, fixtures, and structural supports.
Round Bar: 1mm-500mm, Square Bar: 3mm-100mm, and more. Standard bar lengths are typically 3, 4, or 6 meters (10, 12, or 20 feet).
We can also provide cut-to-length or coiled (for small diameter wire) according to your or your customer's requirements.
ASTM A276, ASTM A479, JIS G4303, EN 10088-3, GB/T 1220
The price of 304 stainless steel bar is not fixed; it is a dynamic value determined by a variety of factors. The main factors affecting it are the customer's desired dimensions, surface treatment, and purchase quantity. Generally speaking, the unit price for large quantities is much lower than that for small quantities. Processing fees and material loss are also included for zero-cut materials. Compared to major international markets (such as Europe and North America), Chinese steel offers a significant price advantage. Our efficient production model significantly reduces unit costs, allowing us to offer you a relatively satisfactory price. When inquiring, please be sure to specify the material standard, specifications, surface treatment, purchase quantity, and target delivery location.
The main difference comes from the cross-sectional shape. A round bar is simple to machine on lathes, grinders, and other tools. It is used for parts that need symmetry, such as shafts, rods, pins, and bolts. A square bar is more common in structural work. It provides flat surfaces for stable contact and makes welding alignment easier. Common uses include brackets, bases, guardrails, and workbench frames.
The first factor is the cost of alloying metals like nickel and chromium. Their price directly affects stainless steel costs. Market demand is another driver. Industries such as automotive, appliances, and construction create most of the demand. At the same time, steel mill production levels influence supply. Prices shift when supply and demand are in balance. In global trade, tariffs and policies also affect the export price of 304 round bars.
Of course. We offer comprehensive customization services, including custom sizes, custom tolerances, and varying levels of surface finish. Provide a detailed product drawing or technical specifications, and we'll provide an evaluation and quote.
At SUNNING STEEL LIMITED, you can purchase any custom stainless steel bar. We can accommodate even the largest orders regardless of the process, size, labeling, or packaging.
