Welcome to USA Piping Solution, your premier source for high-quality Stainless Steel 304 Welded Pipe & Tube. As a leading manufacturer and supplier based in the USA, we are dedicated to providing robust, reliable, and precisely engineered piping solutions tailored to meet the demanding requirements of diverse industries. Our commitment to excellence ensures that every piece of SS 304 welded pipe and tubing we supply adheres to stringent quality standards, offering exceptional performance and longevity. Whether your application involves fluid transport, structural support, or specialized processing, USA Piping Solution has the inventory, expertise, and service capabilities to be your trusted partner for all your stainless steel needs. Explore our comprehensive range and discover why businesses across the nation rely on us for their critical piping components.

What are Stainless Steel 304 Welded Pipes & Tubes?
Stainless Steel 304 is arguably the most widely used austenitic stainless steel grade globally, often referred to as the "18/8" stainless steel due to its typical composition of 18% chromium and 8% nickel. Stainless Steel 304 Welded Pipe & Tube are tubular products manufactured from flat-rolled stainless steel strips or plates, which are then formed into a round, square, or rectangular shape and subsequently joined at the seam using various welding techniques, most commonly Electric Resistance Welding (ERW) or Electric Fusion Welding (EFW).
The resulting 304 Stainless Steel Welded Pipe offers a combination of desirable characteristics that make it exceptionally versatile:
- Excellent Corrosion Resistance: SS 304 exhibits outstanding resistance to a wide range of atmospheric environments and many corrosive media. This makes it suitable for applications where exposure to moisture, chemicals, and food products is common.
- Good Weldability: The austenitic structure of Type 304 lends itself well to all standard fusion and resistance welding methods, both with and without filler metals. This ease of welding simplifies fabrication and installation processes.
- Excellent Formability and Fabricability: SS 304 can be readily formed, drawn, bent, and fabricated into various shapes and configurations without excessive work hardening, allowing for complex designs and applications.
- Hygienic Properties: Its smooth, non-porous surface is easy to clean and sanitize, making it an ideal choice for applications in the food and beverage, pharmaceutical, and medical industries where cleanliness is paramount.
- Strength and Durability: While not as strong as duplex or martensitic grades, SS 304 provides good strength and durability for a wide array of structural and fluid handling applications at ambient and moderately elevated temperatures.
- Cost-Effectiveness: Compared to higher-alloyed stainless steels or other corrosion-resistant alloys, SS 304 offers a favorable balance of performance and cost, making it an economical choice for many projects.
Stainless Steel Welded Tubing made from Grade 304 shares these properties and is often specified where tighter tolerances on outside diameter (OD) and wall thickness are required, particularly in mechanical, structural, or heat exchanger applications. Pipe, conversely, is typically designated by a nominal pipe size (NPS) and schedule number, primarily intended for fluid or gas conveyance.
USA Piping Solution provides both SS 304 Welded Tubes and pipes, ensuring you receive the correct product type engineered for your specific functional requirements.
Stainless Steel 304 Welded Pipe & Tube Specifications
At USA Piping Solution, we supply Stainless Steel 304 Welded Pipes and Tubes manufactured to meet rigorous international standards and customer specifications. Understanding these specifications is crucial for selecting the right product for your application.
Technical Specifications
Our SS 304 Welded Pipes and Tubes conform to the following general technical specifications:
- Standards: Primarily manufactured according to ASTM A312 (Seamless, Welded, and Heavily Cold Worked Austenitic Stainless Steel Pipes) and ASTM A249 (Welded Austenitic Steel Boiler, Superheater, Heat-Exchanger, and Condenser Tubes), ASTM A269 (Seamless and Welded Austenitic Stainless Steel Tubing for General Service), ASTM A778 (Welded, Unannealed Austenitic Stainless Steel Tubular Products) depending on the specific product type and application. We also adhere to relevant ASME specifications like SA312.
- Manufacturing Process: Typically produced using Electric Resistance Welding (ERW) or Electric Fusion Welding (EFW) processes, ensuring a strong and consistent weld seam.
- Pipe Sizes (NPS): Available in a wide range from 1/8” NPS up to 24” NPS and larger fabricated sizes upon request.
- Tube Sizes (OD): Offered in various Outside Diameters (OD), typically from 1/4" OD upwards, tailored to specific application needs.
- Wall Thickness: Available in various schedule sizes (SCH 5S, 10S, 40S, 80S, etc.) for pipes, and specific wall thicknesses (gauge or mm/inches) for tubes. We can supply products ranging from thin-wall tubing to heavy-wall pipes.
- Length: Standard lengths include Single Random Length (SRL approx. 17-24 ft) and Double Random Length (DRL approx. 36-44 ft). Custom cut-to-length services are also available to meet precise project requirements.
- End Finishes: Pipes and tubes can be supplied with Plain Ends (PE), Beveled Ends (BE) for welding, or Threaded Ends (NPT/BSPT).
- Forms/Shapes: While round is the most common, we also supply 304 Stainless Steel Welded Pipe and tubing in Square, Rectangular, Oval, and U-shape configurations for specific structural or heat exchanger applications. Coiled tubing is also available.
- Surface Finish: Standard finish is typically annealed and pickled (A&P). Polished finishes (e.g., #4 satin, #8 mirror) are available for aesthetic or sanitary applications.
USA Piping Solution ensures that all supplied Stainless Steel 304 Welded Pipe & Tube products meet or exceed the specified dimensional tolerances, material standards, and testing requirements.
Chemical Composition and Mechanical Properties
The performance characteristics of Stainless Steel 304 Welded Pipes and Tubes are directly linked to their chemical composition and resulting mechanical properties. These factors determine the material's corrosion resistance, strength, ductility, and suitability for various operating conditions.
Chemical Composition (Typical)
The nominal chemical composition for Stainless Steel 304 (UNS S30400 / Werkstoff Nr. 1.4301) is tightly controlled according to standards like ASTM A312. A typical range is provided below:
Element | Symbol | Content (%) | Significance |
---|---|---|---|
Carbon | C | 0.08 max | Affects hardness, strength, and weldability |
Manganese | Mn | 2.00 max | Improves hot working properties, strength |
Silicon | Si | 0.75 max | Deoxidizer, improves scaling resistance |
Phosphorus | P | 0.045 max | Impurity, controlled for toughness |
Sulfur | S | 0.030 max | Impurity, controlled for weldability/toughness |
Chromium | Cr | 18.00 - 20.00 | Key element for corrosion resistance |
Nickel | Ni | 8.00 - 10.50 | Key element for austenitic structure, ductility |
Nitrogen | N | 0.10 max | Increases strength and pitting resistance |
Iron | Fe | Balance | Base metal |
Note: Values are typical ranges; exact specifications may vary slightly based on the specific standard (ASTM, EN, etc.). USA Piping Solution provides Mill Test Certificates (MTCs) detailing the exact heat analysis.
Mechanical Properties
Mechanical properties define how the material behaves under applied loads. Typical minimum room temperature mechanical properties for annealed SS 304 according to ASTM A312 are:
Property | Minimum Value (Imperial) | Minimum Value (Metric) | Significance |
---|---|---|---|
Tensile Strength | 75,000 psi | 515 MPa | Maximum stress material can withstand |
Yield Strength (0.2% Offset) | 30,000 psi | 205 MPa | Stress at which permanent deformation begins |
Elongation (in 2" or 50mm) | 40 % | 40 % | Measure of ductility before fracture |
Hardness (Rockwell B) | 92 HRB max | - | Resistance to indentation (common scale) |
Hardness (Brinell) | 201 HBW max | 201 HBW max | Resistance to indentation (alternative scale) |
Note: These are minimum specified values for annealed material. Actual values may be higher. Properties can be affected by temperature and processing.
Understanding these properties is crucial for engineers and designers when specifying SS 304 Welded Tubes and pipes for applications involving pressure, load-bearing, or specific forming requirements.
Types and Variations of Stainless Steel 304 Welded Pipes & Tubes
While "Stainless Steel 304 Welded Pipe & Tube" is a broad category, several variations exist based on manufacturing methods, finishes, and shapes, catering to specific needs:
- ERW (Electric Resistance Welded) Pipes/Tubes: This is the most common welding method for standard pipes and tubes. It involves passing high-frequency electric current through the mating edges of the formed strip, generating heat that fuses the edges together. ERW pipes are cost-effective and suitable for a wide range of general-purpose applications.
- EFW (Electric Fusion Welded) Pipes: Often used for larger diameter pipes, EFW involves using an electric arc to melt and fuse the material, sometimes with the addition of filler metal. This process can be used for thicker walls and demanding applications.
- As-Welded Condition: Pipes or tubes supplied directly after welding, typically with the weld bead present (internally, externally, or both). Suitable for applications where the bead does not interfere.
- Annealed and Pickled (A&P): A standard finish where the welded product is heat-treated (annealed) to relieve stresses and improve corrosion resistance, followed by pickling (acid treatment) to remove heat tint and surface scale, resulting in a uniform matte grey finish. This is the most common supply condition for 304 Stainless Steel Welded Pipe.
- Polished Finishes: For applications requiring improved aesthetics or enhanced cleanability (e.g., architectural, food processing, pharmaceutical), pipes and tubes can be supplied with various polished finishes, such as:
- #4 Satin Finish: A common directional brushed finish.
- #8 Mirror Finish: A highly reflective, non-directional finish.
- Square and Rectangular Tubing: Formed from round welded tubes into square or rectangular hollow sections (SHS/RHS). Widely used for structural frameworks, supports, architectural features, and machine building.
- Ornamental/Architectural Tubing: Often produced with thinner walls and specific aesthetic finishes (like bright annealed or polished) for handrails, balustrades, furniture, and decorative elements.
- Heat Exchanger Tubes:Stainless Steel Welded Tubing specifically manufactured to tighter tolerances (ASTM A249/A269) for use in shell-and-tube heat exchangers, condensers, and boilers. Often supplied in annealed condition.
- Coiled Tubing: Long, continuous lengths of tubing supplied in coils, often used for instrumentation lines, hydraulic systems, or heat tracing.
USA Piping Solution, as a comprehensive 304 Stainless Steel Pipe Supplier, offers these various types and can assist in selecting the most appropriate variation for your specific project needs.
Applications and Industries Served
The versatility, corrosion resistance, and cost-effectiveness of Stainless Steel 304 Welded Pipe & Tube make them indispensable across a multitude of industries. USA Piping Solution proudly serves clients in sectors including:
- Food & Beverage Processing: Essential for pipelines, tanks, vessels, processing equipment, and CIP (Clean-in-Place) systems due to hygiene requirements and resistance to food acids and cleaning solutions.
- Chemical and Petrochemical: Used for transporting various chemicals, process fluids, and in structural components where moderate corrosion resistance is sufficient.
- Pharmaceutical and Biotechnology: Employed in high-purity water systems, process lines, and equipment fabrication where cleanability and resistance to corrosion are critical.
- Water Treatment and Distribution: Suitable for piping systems carrying potable water, wastewater, and desalinated water due to good resistance to corrosion from water and treatment chemicals.
- Heat Exchangers and Condensers:SS 304 Welded Tubes are frequently used in shell-and-tube heat exchangers, condensers, and evaporators for efficient heat transfer in moderately corrosive environments.
- Architectural and Construction: Widely used for handrails, balustrades, building facades, structural supports, decorative elements, and street furniture due to its aesthetic appeal, durability, and low maintenance.
- Automotive: Utilized in exhaust systems (mufflers, pipes), trim, and structural components requiring heat and corrosion resistance.
- Pulp and Paper Industry: Found in various process lines and equipment handling corrosive liquors and process streams.
- Mining: Used in slurry transport, water handling, and structural applications in corrosive mining environments.
- General Engineering and Manufacturing: Applied in countless mechanical components, frameworks, machinery parts, and fluid handling systems across general industry.
The broad applicability underscores the importance of partnering with a reliable 304 Stainless Steel Pipe Supplier like USA Piping Solution, capable of meeting the diverse quality and specification demands of these sectors.
Stainless Steel 304 Welded Pipe & Tube Size Chart
Selecting the correct size is fundamental for any piping or tubing application. USA Piping Solution offers an extensive range of sizes for Stainless Steel 304 Welded Pipe & Tube. While comprehensive charts detailing Nominal Pipe Size (NPS), Outside Diameter (OD), Wall Thickness (WT), and weight per foot/meter for various schedules are available, here's a conceptual overview:
- Pipe Sizing: Typically follows the ASME B36.19 (Stainless Steel Pipe) and ASME B36.10 (Welded and Seamless Wrought Steel Pipe) standards. Sizes are denoted by NPS (e.g., 1/2", 1", 2", 4", 6", etc.) and Schedule (e.g., Sch 10S, Sch 40S, Sch 80S), which determines the wall thickness.
- Tube Sizing: Generally specified by the exact Outside Diameter (OD) and Wall Thickness (WT), often in inches or millimeters (e.g., 1" OD x 0.065" WT, 25.4mm OD x 1.65mm WT).
Example Snippet (Pipe - illustrative only):
NPS | OD (in) | Schedule | Wall Thick. (in) | Wt (lb/ft) |
---|---|---|---|---|
1" | 1.315 | 10S | 0.109 | 1.49 |
1" | 1.315 | 40S | 0.133 | 1.79 |
2" | 2.375 | 10S | 0.109 | 2.69 |
2" | 2.375 | 40S | 0.154 | 3.74 |
USA Piping Solution provides detailed size and weight charts upon request. Our expert team can assist you in navigating these charts and selecting the precise dimensions required for your flow rate, pressure, structural, or mechanical needs. Please contact us for specific size availability and technical data sheets for Stainless Steel 304 Welded Pipe & Tube.
Certifications and Compliance Standards
Quality and compliance are non-negotiable at USA Piping Solution. We understand the critical nature of piping systems and ensure that our Stainless Steel 304 Welded Pipe & Tube products meet stringent industry standards and customer requirements.
- Material Standards: Our products conform to internationally recognized standards such as:
- ASTM A312 / ASME SA312: Standard Specification for Seamless, Welded, and Heavily Cold Worked Austenitic Stainless Steel Pipes.
- ASTM A249 / ASME SA249: Standard Specification for Welded Austenitic Steel Boiler, Superheater, Heat-Exchanger, and Condenser Tubes.
- ASTM A269 / ASME SA269: Standard Specification for Seamless and Welded Austenitic Stainless Steel Tubing for General Service.
- ASTM A778: Standard Specification for Welded, Unannealed Austenitic Stainless Steel Tubular Products.
- Relevant EN standards (e.g., EN 10217-7 for welded steel tubes for pressure purposes).
- Quality Management System: While specific certifications may vary, our manufacturing partners often operate under ISO 9001 certified quality management systems, ensuring consistency and traceability throughout the production process.
- Mill Test Certificates (MTCs): Every shipment of SS 304 Welded Tubes and pipes is accompanied by a Mill Test Certificate (MTC) in accordance with EN 10204 3.1. This crucial document provides full traceability and verifies:
- Heat number
- Chemical composition analysis
- Mechanical test results (tensile, yield, elongation, hardness)
- Results of any supplementary tests performed (e.g., hydrostatic, non-destructive testing like eddy current or ultrasonic)
- Confirmation of compliance with the specified standards.
- Pressure Equipment Directive (PED): For applications within the European Economic Area requiring compliance, we can supply products meeting PED requirements where applicable.
- NACE Compliance: For applications involving sour service (exposure to H2S), materials can be selected and tested according to NACE MR0175 / ISO 15156 standards, although SS 304 has limitations in such environments.
By adhering to these standards and providing comprehensive documentation, USA Piping Solution guarantees the quality, reliability, and compliance of our Stainless Steel Welded Tubing and pipe products.
Why Choose USA Piping Solution for Stainless Steel 304 Welded Pipes & Tubes?
When sourcing critical components like Stainless Steel 304 Welded Pipe & Tube, selecting the right supplier is paramount. USA Piping Solution stands out as the preferred partner for numerous businesses across various industries for several key reasons:
- Uncompromising Quality: We are committed to supplying only high-quality SS 304 welded pipes and tubes that meet or exceed industry standards. Rigorous quality control measures and comprehensive MTC documentation ensure product integrity and performance.
- Extensive Inventory: We maintain a substantial inventory of 304 Stainless Steel Welded Pipe and tubing in various sizes, schedules, and specifications, enabling prompt order fulfillment and reducing project lead times.
- Technical Expertise: Our knowledgeable sales and support team possesses deep technical expertise in stainless steel products and their applications. We can provide valuable assistance in material selection, specification interpretation, and finding solutions for challenging requirements.
- Reliability and On-Time Delivery: We understand the importance of project timelines. Our efficient logistics and supply chain management ensure reliable and timely delivery across the USA.
- Customization Capabilities: Beyond standard stock items, we offer value-added services including custom cutting-to-length, polishing, and sourcing specific configurations to meet unique project demands.
- Competitive Pricing: Leveraging strong relationships with manufacturers and efficient operations, we offer competitive pricing without compromising on quality or service.
- Customer-Centric Approach: We prioritize building long-term partnerships with our clients. Our focus is on understanding your needs and providing responsive, tailored solutions and exceptional customer service.
- USA-Based Supplier: As a US-based company, we offer the advantages of domestic sourcing, clear communication, and adherence to local business practices and regulations.
Choosing USA Piping Solution means partnering with a dedicated 304 Stainless Steel Pipe Supplier committed to delivering quality products, technical support, and reliable service for the success of your projects.
Related Products
In addition to our comprehensive range of Stainless Steel 304 Welded Pipes & Tubes, USA Piping Solution also supplies a variety of related products to complete your piping systems:

Other Stainless Steel Grades (e.g., 310, 317, 321, 347, 904L)

Duplex and Super Duplex Stainless Steel Pipes & Tubes

Stainless Steel Butt Weld Fittings (Elbows, Tees, Reducers, Caps)

Stainless Steel Forged Fittings (Socket Weld & Threaded)

Stainless Steel Flanges (Weld Neck, Slip-On, Blind, Lap Joint, etc.)

Stainless Steel Bars (Round, Square, Flat)

Stainless Steel Sheets & Plates
Final Call to Action
For top-quality Stainless Steel 304 Welded Pipe & Tube backed by technical expertise and reliable service, trust USA Piping Solution. Our extensive inventory and commitment to excellence make us the ideal supplier for your industrial, commercial, and structural applications. Ready to discuss your requirements or request a quote?
Request Your Stainless Steel 304 Welded Pipe & Tube Quote Today!