Is 17-4 PH Stainless Steel Magnetic?
Imagine a material that combines exceptional strength, corrosion resistance, and precise mechanical properties—yet also has the fascinating ability to be…
When it comes to construction, manufacturing, or industrial projects, stainless steel 304 stands out as one of the most versatile and widely used materials. Renowned for its exceptional corrosion resistance, durability, and strength, SS 304 is a cornerstone in industries ranging from infrastructure to kitchenware. However, as vital as its properties are, understanding its pricing is equally crucial, especially in a dynamic market like India, where costs can vary based on size, thickness, supplier, and market trends. Whether you’re sourcing materials for a large-scale project or comparing options for your next purchase, having access to accurate and up-to-date price information is essential to making informed decisions.
This guide will delve into the latest stainless steel 304 prices in India, breaking down costs per kilogram, per meter, and across various product types like pipes, sheets, and tubes. Additionally, you’ll discover how factors such as supplier reputation, specifications, and global market conditions influence pricing. By the end, you’ll have all the insights you need to navigate the Indian SS 304 market with confidence and find the best value for your needs.
Stainless Steel 304, also known as SS 304, is a popular stainless steel grade renowned for its excellent corrosion resistance, durability, and versatility. Classified under the austenitic stainless steel family, it is primarily composed of chromium and nickel, which provide superior resistance to oxidation and rust across various environments. Its non-magnetic nature and ease of fabrication make it a preferred choice in many industries.
SS 304 is used in a wide range of applications, from household items like kitchenware and sinks to industrial components such as pipes, tanks, and fasteners. Its ability to withstand high temperatures and resist chemical exposure makes it highly adaptable, essential for sectors such as construction, chemical processing, and food production.
Understanding the pricing trends of Stainless Steel 304 is crucial for businesses and professionals in manufacturing, construction, or procurement. Fluctuations in raw material costs, market demand, and global supply chains can greatly affect the cost of SS 304 products. Staying informed about these trends helps buyers make timely purchasing decisions, optimize budgets, and maintain competitive pricing.
In India, the stainless steel market is growing rapidly, driven by infrastructure development, urbanization, and government initiatives. India has become a major hub for stainless steel production and distribution due to its diverse supplier network and competitive pricing. However, regional price variations and differences in product quality or specifications require careful consideration when sourcing materials.
The demand for SS 304 is driven by its extensive use in various industries, including:
This widespread demand underscores the importance of SS 304 in both industrial and consumer applications, highlighting the need for buyers to understand its price dynamics to ensure cost-effective procurement.
Stainless Steel 304, known for its excellent corrosion resistance and durability, is a widely used material across various industries. Its unique composition and mechanical properties make it an ideal choice for applications requiring strength, resilience, and reliability.
Stainless Steel 304 is composed of a precise balance of elements that contribute to its exceptional properties. It contains chromium (18-20%) and nickel (8-12%), which are primarily responsible for its corrosion resistance and strength. Smaller amounts of carbon (up to 0.08%), manganese (up to 2.00%), phosphorus (up to 0.045%), sulfur (up to 0.03%), silicon (up to 0.75%), and nitrogen (up to 0.10%) are also present. The remaining composition is iron, which provides the structural foundation for this widely trusted material.
The mechanical performance of Stainless Steel 304 is a key factor in its widespread use. It features a tensile strength ranging from 515 to 700 MPa and a yield strength between 205 and 230 MPa. Additionally, it demonstrates a minimum elongation of 40-45%, ensuring flexibility and ductility during fabrication. The material maintains a maximum hardness of Rockwell B 92 or Brinell 201, striking a balance between toughness and machinability.
Stainless Steel 304 exhibits physical characteristics that enhance its versatility in demanding environments. With a density of 8.00 g/cm³ and a thermal conductivity of 16.2 W/m.K, it performs exceptionally well in high-temperature applications. Its electrical resistivity of 0.72 x 10^-6 Ω.m and thermal expansion coefficient of 17.2 x 10^-6/K further highlight its adaptability in both thermal and electrical systems. These properties make it a reliable choice for industries such as construction, automotive, and energy.
Compliance with international standards ensures that Stainless Steel 304 consistently meets quality benchmarks, making it a trusted material for global applications. It adheres to standards such as ASTM A240, ASTM A666, and ASME SA240, while its equivalent grades include UNS S30400, Euronorm 1.4301, BS 304S31, JIS SUS 304, and GOST 08Х18Н10. These certifications guarantee its performance, reliability, and compatibility across industries worldwide.
The ASTM A312 TP 304 standard plays a critical role in defining the requirements for seamless, welded, and heavily cold-worked pipes made from Stainless Steel 304. This standard ensures that the pipes are durable, reliable, and capable of withstanding high-pressure and high-temperature environments. As a result, these pipes are widely used in industries such as chemical processing, oil and gas, and power generation, where safety and performance are paramount.
With its balanced chemical composition, robust mechanical and physical properties, and adherence to global quality standards, Stainless Steel 304 remains a top choice for industries requiring strength, durability, and corrosion resistance. Whether it’s in construction, manufacturing, or energy production, SS 304 continues to deliver unmatched performance, making it a cornerstone of modern engineering and design.
In India, the price of Stainless Steel 304 (SS 304) varies based on factors such as the supplier, region, and product form. For instance, the prices in major cities are as follows: Delhi at Rs 215 per kg, Kolkata at Rs 207 per kg, Bangalore at Rs 205 per kg, Haryana at Rs 210 per kg, Bihar at Rs 210 per kg, Lucknow and Kanpur both at Rs 206 per kg, Odisha at Rs 203 per kg, Punjab at Rs 215 per kg, and Jaipur at Rs 203 per kg.
The price of SS 304 in India generally ranges from Rs 155 to Rs 220 per kg. This variation is influenced by the supplier, product form (such as pipe, sheet, or rod), and any additional processing or finishes.
When looking at SS 304 pipes and tubes, the price per meter depends on the size, thickness, and finish. For example, a 1-inch pipe ranges from Rs 190 to Rs 260 per kg, while a 2-inch pipe may have a slightly higher price due to increased material cost and processing requirements.
Different suppliers offer varying prices for SS 304. For instance, Jindal Steel’s prices range from Rs 203 to Rs 260 per kg, while FASTWELL and Jainex Steel offer prices from Rs 155 to Rs 220 per kg, depending on the region and product specifications.
Several factors influence the price of SS 304, including raw material costs, additional processing, and regional taxes. The availability and demand for raw materials, surface finishes, and any extra work on the steel, such as polishing or coating, contribute to higher costs. Regional taxes, such as VAT, can also affect the final price per foot or meter.
SS 304 prices from Indian suppliers are around Rs 195 per kg (approximately $2.85 USD or €2.43), while international prices can range from Rs 250 to Rs 350 per kg, depending on the country of origin and specific product requirements.
Santosh Steel, an ISO 9001:2000-certified company, is a leading manufacturer and supplier of Stainless Steel 304 pipes and tubes in India. Known for their extensive range, Santosh Steel offers products in various dimensions, shapes (round, square, rectangular), and finishes, and exports to multiple countries. The company is certified by TUV Rheinland Group, ensuring high-quality and safe products.
Jainex Steel and Metal, based in Mumbai, are renowned suppliers, manufacturers, and exporters of Stainless Steel 304 sheets. Their offerings include a variety of stainless steel sheets, such as cold-rolled and hot-rolled sheets, meeting ASTM A240 standards for diverse applications.
Sambhav Pipes is a major stockist and supplier of Stainless Steel 304 sheets and plates in India. They offer competitive pricing, often 10% to 15% lower than other providers. Their product range includes cold-rolled and hot-rolled sheets from leading manufacturers like Jindal Stainless, POSCO, and Aperam.
Mahadev Steel India is recognized for offering 304 Stainless Steel Round Pipes at competitive prices, starting from INR 350 per kilogram. They are known for their reliable supply chain and consistent product quality, making them a preferred choice for many industries.
Som Shanti Steels provides Stainless Steel 304 Grade Pipes at INR 225 per kilogram. Their focus on maintaining high standards of quality and affordability has earned them a solid reputation in the market.
Flexco Steel India offers 304 Stainless Steel Pipes at INR 180 per kilogram. Their extensive range of products and competitive pricing make them a significant player in the stainless steel market.
Apple Steel Centre supplies 304 Stainless Steel Round Pipes at INR 251 per kilogram. Known for their diverse product range and adherence to stringent quality standards, they cater to a wide array of industrial requirements.
Most manufacturers and suppliers in India adhere to international standards, ensuring their products meet quality benchmarks such as ASTM A240, A213, and A269 standards. Many suppliers are ISO 9001:2000 certified, guaranteeing quality and customer satisfaction. Some are also certified by TUV Rheinland Group, which includes regular surveillance audits and factory inspections.
Stainless Steel 304 products are widely used across various industries, including food and beverages, chemical, pharmaceutical, oil and gas, automotive, construction, HVAC and plumbing, and petrochemical. These industries rely on the high quality, durability, and compliance with international standards offered by Indian suppliers and manufacturers.
The cost of Stainless Steel 304 is largely driven by the prices of its key raw materials, such as nickel, chromium, and iron ore. Fluctuations in the global market prices of these elements can lead to changes in production costs, which in turn affect the market prices of stainless steel products.
The prices of Stainless Steel 304 are determined by the balance between supply and demand, which can be influenced by global economic conditions and industry trends. High demand with limited supply often results in increased prices, whereas an oversupply can lead to price reductions.
Advanced manufacturing techniques, such as cold working and surface finishing, increase production costs, which are typically reflected in the final pricing. While these processes ensure superior product performance, they also contribute to the overall cost of the finished stainless steel products.
Import duties and taxes on raw materials and finished products can significantly affect the cost of SS 304 in India, depending on government policies and trade agreements. These financial obligations can vary and have a direct impact on the final consumer prices.
Changes in currency exchange rates can impact import costs, with a weaker Indian Rupee potentially leading to higher prices for stainless steel products. Fluctuations in exchange rates can thus affect the affordability and pricing strategy for SS 304 in the Indian market.
Government regulations, including tariffs and export restrictions, directly influence the prices of SS 304, while domestic policies on infrastructure and industrial growth affect demand and pricing. These policies can create ripple effects in the market, impacting both supply and demand.
Economic cycles and global events, like the COVID-19 pandemic, can disrupt supply chains and affect production capacities, causing price volatility. Such disruptions can lead to unpredictable changes in the pricing landscape for stainless steel products.
Products that meet high-quality standards and certifications often cost more due to their superior reliability and suitability for critical applications. Compliance with these standards ensures the products are fit for purpose, justifying their premium pricing.
Freight and transportation costs also influence the final pricing of SS 304, with increased rates adding to overall costs for consumers. Efficient logistics management is crucial to minimizing these costs and maintaining competitive prices in the market.
Below are answers to some frequently asked questions:
The current price of SS 304 pipes in India varies based on factors such as size, wall thickness, and location. Prices per meter typically range from ₹450 to ₹1630, depending on these specifications. When calculated per kilogram, prices generally start from ₹200 to ₹220. Additionally, costs such as GST at 18% and transportation charges should be considered, and regional variations might affect the price slightly. Bulk orders can often result in discounted rates.
The price of Stainless Steel 304 (SS 304) per kilogram in India generally ranges from ₹195 to ₹300. This variation depends on factors such as the supplier, product form, location, and market conditions. For example, prices in Mumbai can be around ₹195 to ₹200 per kg, while in Delhi and Chennai, the prices are approximately ₹165 to ₹175 per kg.
The prices of SS 304 sheets and tubes in India vary based on thickness, size, and type. SS 304 sheets generally cost between ₹200 to ₹300 per kg. For specific thicknesses, 1.0mm to 3.0mm sheets are priced around ₹205/kg, while 3-4mm sheets cost approximately ₹292/kg. Hot Rolled Plates with 6mm to 50mm thickness are priced near ₹200/kg, excluding taxes and freight. SS 304 tubes also vary by type, with seamless tubes priced between ₹203 to ₹215 per kg domestically, depending on location, and ranging from $2200 to $7000 per ton internationally for different specifications. Welded tubes typically fall within a similar range. Prices are influenced by factors like market conditions, supplier, and region.
Neelcon Steel Industries and Silicon Steels are among the top suppliers offering competitive prices for SS 304 products in India. Neelcon Steel provides detailed and transparent pricing for Jindal SS 304 pipes and tubes across various locations, while Silicon Steels offers updated price lists for Jindal SS 304 sheets and coils, making them reliable for cost comparisons. Kamal Steels and Santosh Steel are also known for high-quality products and adherence to international standards, but their pricing requires direct inquiries. Comparing price lists and obtaining quotations from these suppliers can help identify the best option based on specific requirements.
Stainless Steel 304, commonly used in a variety of applications, possesses distinct mechanical and chemical properties. Mechanically, SS 304 has a tensile strength ranging from 515 to 720 MPa and a yield strength around 205-210 MPa. It offers an elongation at break of at least 40% and a hardness between 70-92 HRB. The density is approximately 7,900 kg/m³, and its modulus of elasticity ranges from 183 to 200 GPa. Chemically, SS 304 comprises up to 0.08% carbon, up to 2.0% manganese, up to 0.75% silicon, and traces of phosphorus and sulfur. It includes 18.0-20.0% chromium and 8.0-10.5% nickel, contributing to its corrosion resistance and durability. These properties make SS 304 a versatile and reliable material in various industrial applications.
The prices of SS 304 pipes and sheets in India vary based on size and thickness due to the amount of material required and production complexity. For pipes, larger diameters and thicker walls result in higher costs. For instance, a 1/2-inch Schedule 10 pipe with a 2.11 mm wall thickness may cost around ₹620 per meter, while the same size in Schedule 40 with a 2.77 mm wall thickness can cost ₹786 per meter. Similarly, a 2-inch pipe with a 3.91 mm wall thickness may cost approximately ₹1630 per meter. For sheets, while the price per kilogram (around ₹165 per kg) remains relatively consistent across India, the total cost increases with greater thickness and larger sheet sizes due to the increased material usage. These variations are further influenced by factors like raw material costs, transportation, and market demand.
