304 Stainless Steel Flat Washers
What are 304 stainless flat washers? 304 stainless steel flat washers are general-purpose round washers that spread a fastener's load and protect the surface, made from corrosion-resistant 304 stainless. They resist rust in wet, humid, and outdoor use, making them a durable everyday choice for most fastening.
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Why use 304 stainless for flat washers?
304 is the workhorse austenitic stainless, offering strong corrosion resistance for indoor, outdoor, and freshwater use at a lower cost than 316. It spreads clamping load over a wide area and protects the mating surface. Pair it with 304 or 18-8 stainless bolts and nuts so the whole joint shares the same corrosion resistance and there is no weak rust point. For coastal, saltwater, or chloride exposure, step up to 316.
Why choose 304 stainless flat washers
- Corrosion resistant: resists rust in wet, humid, and outdoor use.
- General purpose: the everyday washer for most fastening.
- Non-staining: will not rust-streak the mounting surface.
- Match grade: pairs with 304 and 18-8 stainless hardware.
Common applications for 304 stainless flat washers
- General outdoor and freshwater assembly
- Machinery, brackets, and fixtures
- Decks, fences, and railings
- Food-grade and wash-down equipment
For coastal and saltwater use, see 316 stainless flat washers, and browse every material on the main flat washers category.
304 Stainless Flat Washers FAQ
Is 304 the same as 18-8 stainless?
304 falls within the 18-8 family, with about 18% chromium and 8% nickel. The terms are often used interchangeably for washers.
Is 304 good for coastal use?
304 handles most outdoor and freshwater exposure but can pit in salt. For coastal or saltwater use, choose 316 or metric A4.
Should the washer match the bolt grade?
Yes. Pairing 304 washers with 304 or 18-8 stainless bolts and nuts avoids a corrosion weak point in the joint.