Stainless Steel Descriptions

Type 304:: This is the most common grade of stainless steel and is widely used for many applications. Contains approximately 18% chromium and 8% nickel.
Type 304L:: Similar to 304 except that is has very low carbon content (“L” represents low carbon). This improves the corrosion resistance of welds by reducing carbide precipitation during welding.
Type 316:: The addition of 2 – 3% molybdenum gives 316 better overall corrosion resistance for certain applications compared to 304.
Type 409:: This is a lower-cost stainless with approximately 11% chromium. A light surface rust will form in most atmospheres; this rust retards further corrosion.

No. 2B:: Also called mill finish, this is the standard cold-rolled finish and is a uniform matte gray in appearance.
No. 3:: This is a ground unidirectional uniform finish obtained with 80 – 120 grit abrasive. Also called “brushed”.
No. 4:: This is a ground unidirectional finish, similar to a number 3, but using finer 150-180 grit abrasive. Can also be called “brushed” or sometimes “satin”.