Melting Point Of Stainless Steel 304?
Sep 30, 2026
Leave a message
The melting point of 304 stainless steel is approximately 1400–1450 °C (2550–2650 °F). Because stainless steel is an alloy rather than a pure metal, it does not melt at a single temperature but over a range, beginning at the solidus and finishing at the liquidus. For grade 304, the solidus is about 1400 °C and the liquidus about 1450 °C.
Quick Facts: 304 Stainless Steel
| Property | Value |
|---|---|
| Grade | 304 / UNS S30400 |
| Melting Range | 1400 – 1450 °C (2550 – 2650 °F) |
| Solidus | ~1400 °C (2550 °F) |
| Liquidus | ~1450 °C (2640 °F) |
| Density | ~7.93 g/cm³ |
| Type | Austenitic stainless steel |
| Max Service Temp. | ~870 °C continuous / ~925 °C intermittent |
Chemical Composition and Its Effect on Melting
The melting range of 304 depends on its alloying elements. Chromium and nickel raise the melting point of iron, while carbon, manganese, and silicon tend to lower the solidus. Typical 304 stainless steel contains:
| Element | Composition (wt.%) |
|---|---|
| Carbon (C) | ≤ 0.08 |
| Silicon (Si) | ≤ 0.75 |
| Manganese (Mn) | ≤ 2.00 |
| Phosphorus (P) | ≤ 0.045 |
| Sulfur (S) | ≤ 0.030 |
| Chromium (Cr) | 18.0 – 20.0 |
| Nickel (Ni) | 8.0 – 10.5 |
| Nitrogen (N) | ≤ 0.10 |
| Iron (Fe) | Balance |
How 304 Compares with Other Materials
| Material | Melting Range | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| 304 stainless steel | 1400 – 1450 °C | Austenitic, general purpose |
| 316 stainless steel | 1375 – 1400 °C | Molybdenum lowers the range slightly |
| 430 stainless steel | 1425 – 1510 °C | Ferritic, no nickel |
| Carbon steel | 1425 – 1540 °C | Depends on carbon content |
| Aluminum | ~660 °C | Much lower melting point |
Why the Melting Point Matters
Welding: Fusion welding locally exceeds the liquidus, so knowing the range helps control heat input and avoid burn-through.
Casting: The gap between solidus and liquidus affects fluidity and feeding during casting.
High-temperature service: Parts must stay well below the melting range; 304 is typically limited to ~870 °C for continuous service.
Brazing & heat treatment: Filler metals and process temperatures are selected relative to the melting range.
Practically Speaking
Although 304 melts near 1450 °C, it should never be used close to that temperature. Prolonged exposure above roughly 800–900 °C can cause oxidation and sensitization (chromium carbide precipitation), reducing corrosion resistance. For elevated-temperature designs, engineers select the grade and thickness based on the actual service temperature, load, and atmosphere rather than the melting point alone.
FAQ
Q1: At what temperature does 304 stainless steel melt?
A1: It melts over a range of about 1400–1450 °C (2550–2650 °F).
Q2: Does 304 or 316 have a higher melting point?
A2: 304 is slightly higher; 316 melts around 1375–1400 °C because of its molybdenum content.
Q3: Can 304 be used at 1000 °C?
A3:No. It would oxidize and lose strength well before melting; continuous service is normally limited to about 870 °C.
Q4: Is the melting point the same for 304L?
A4: Essentially yes - the slightly lower carbon content of 304L has only a marginal effect.
Conclusion
The melting point of 304 stainless steel is about 1400–1450 °C (2550–2650 °F), reflecting the combined effect of its chromium, nickel, and other alloying elements. Understanding this range - and the much lower practical service limit - helps engineers weld, cast, and specify the grade correctly. Whether you need stainless steel sheet, stainless steel bar, or stainless steel pipe, choosing the right grade and form is the key to reliable performance.
Need 304 stainless steel for a high-temperature or corrosion-resistant project? Our team supplies 304 sheet, plate, bar, and pipe with material documentation and cut-to-size processing.
Send Inquiry