304 vs 302
These two grades are listed as equivalents of each other: their chemistry windows overlap and they serve the same applications. They are not always identical — check the differences below before substituting, especially in certified designs.
304
Stainless Steel
304 is the most widely used stainless steel in the world, an 18-8 austenitic grade balancing corrosion resistance, formability and weldability. It covers the majority of food, architectural and general industrial applications.
Standards: DIN 1.4301 · AISI 304 · JIS SUS304 · GB 06Cr19Ni10
302
Stainless Steel
302 is essentially 304 with a slightly higher carbon allowance, giving a little more strength after cold work. It is widely used for stainless springs, wire and mesh where 304 chemistry is acceptable.
Standards: DIN 1.4300 · AISI 302 · JIS SUS302 · GB 12Cr18Ni9
Chemical composition compared (%)
| Element | 304 | 302 |
|---|---|---|
| C | ≤0.08 | ≤0.15 |
| Si | ≤0.75 | ≤1.00 |
| Mn | ≤2.00 | ≤2.00 |
| P | ≤0.045 | ≤0.045 |
| S | ≤0.030 | ≤0.030 |
| Cr | 18.00–20.00 | 17.00–19.00 |
| Ni | 8.00–10.50 | 8.00–10.00 |
| N | ≤0.10 | — |
Properties compared
| Property | 304 | 302 |
|---|---|---|
| Delivery condition | Annealed | Annealed |
| Hardness | ≤187 HB (annealed) | ≤187 HB (annealed) |
| Tensile strength | 515–720 MPa | 515–720 MPa |
| Yield strength | ≥205 MPa | — |
| Density | 7.90 g/cm³ | 7.90 g/cm³ |
Sourcing either grade?
Nasteel stocks both families from Shenzhen with EN 10204 3.1 mill certificates by heat number.
Ask for a quotationSee full data sheets: 304 · 302. Substitution decisions for certified parts stay with the design authority.