AISI 304 stainless steel
Frequently asked questions
Can AISI 304 stainless steel be laser cut?
With some limitations: AISI 304 stainless steel can be laser cut.
Can AISI 304 stainless steel be CNC machined?
Yes: AISI 304 stainless steel can be CNC machined.
Is AISI 304 stainless steel food safe?
Yes, AISI 304 stainless steel is food safe even in its raw state.
Physical properties
| Density | 7900.0–7900.0 kg/m³ |
|---|---|
| Brinell hardness | 170.0 HB |
| Tensile strength | 505.0 MPa |
| Melting point | 1400.0–1450.0 °C |
| Thermal expansion | 17.2 µm/m·K |
| Moisture absorption | Negligible |
Laser processing
Laser marking or clean cutting does not generate direct toxic fumes if the metal is free of oil or finish contamination.
CO₂: Reflects the CO2 laser beam. Cutting at hobby level is impossible; surface engraving is only feasible by applying chemical marking sprays (Cermark).
Diode: Impossible to cut or mark directly with standard diode lasers due to reflectance.
Fiber: Excellent. Fiber lasers mark by permanent annealing or cut (thin gauges at high industrial powers) the material with very high definition.
CNC / milling processing
Very demanding machining. The material tends to work-harden rapidly: if the cutter rubs against the metal instead of shearing it, the surface hardens drastically, leading to tool breakage. Requires rigid machines, low cutting speeds, constant feed rates, and abundant cooling.
Post-processing
Sanding: Very hard metal. Requires zirconia or ceramic abrasive belts. Wet sand to avoid localized overheating and extend abrasive life.
Primer: mandatory. Direct painting peels easily. Requires epoxy primers or adhesion promoters specifically for sanded or blasted ferrous metals.
Gluing: Bondable only for non-structural or decorative purposes using two-component structural epoxy adhesives, after heavy surface sanding.
Over time: Exceptional stability and atmospheric corrosion resistance thanks to spontaneous chromium passivation. Does not rust outdoors.
Common defects
- Work hardening from incorrect cutting parameters (too-high RPM or slow feed) that destroys the cutter
- Premature tool breakage due to machine vibration with insufficient rigidity
Safety
Recommended PPE: eye_protection
CNC machining chips are long and sharp like blades. Exercise extreme caution and always wear thick protective leather gloves.
Availability and formats
Commercial formats: sheets 1–10mm, round and square bars, shaped tubes
Related materials
Sources
- ASTM A240 — Standard Specification for Chromium and Chromium-Nickel Stainless Steel
- MatWeb — AISI 304 Stainless Steel Datasheet
Information on compatibility, processing parameters and safety is purely indicative. MakerSpecs accepts no liability for damage to persons or property arising from the use of this data. Always check the safety rules and the manufacturer's official manuals before carrying out any processing.