AISI 304 is a type of stainless steel belonging to the austenitic family. It is characterised by its non-magnetic nature and a very specific chemical composition: it contains a low percentage of carbon (approximately 0.05%), between 18% and 20% chromium and between 8% and 11% nickel.
This steel is considered “low” in terms of stainlessness, with an index that usually varies between 17 and 22. It is commonly known as “18-10 stainless steel”, a name that derives from its chromium and nickel content, and is widely used in the manufacture of cookware and cutlery.
However, being non-magnetic, 18-10 steel may not be compatible with modern induction hobs, especially in older cookware sets. Furthermore, it is not suitable for cutting blades, which require a harder, more magnetic steel. For this reason, in good quality cutlery sets, knife blades are usually made of martensitic steel, which has a higher carbon content and is attracted to magnets. On the other hand, cutlery that comes into direct contact with the mouth, such as spoons and forks, must be non-magnetic for reasons of hygiene and comfort.
AISI 304 steel, together with AISI 316, is also widely used in the food industry, particularly in the manufacture of professional machinery. It is also widely used in construction for the production of doors and windows, cladding, decorative elements and metal structures.
The main source of the description
Wikipedia. (2024, circa). AISI 304. In Wikipedia, L’enciclopedia libera.
