AK Steel Type 304 is a variation of the
basic 18-8 grade, Type 302, with a higher
chromium and lower carbon content.
Lower carbon minimizes chromium carbide precipitation due to welding and its
susceptibility to intergranular corrosion.
In many instances, it can be used in the
”as-welded“ condition, while Type 302
must be annealed in order to retain
adequate corrosion resistance.