304 Stainless Steel Bent and Welded Components, Brushed Finish

Common stainless steel welding methods and characteristics

Manual arc welding (MMA) ‌

Principle: An electric arc is generated between the electrode and the workpiece by manual operation to melt the metal, with the electrode serving as the filler material. ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌

Applicable scenarios: It has strong flexibility and is suitable for outdoor or complex position welding, but the stability of weld quality is relatively low. ‌ ‌

Key points of the process: Small current rapid welding should be adopted, and the interlayer temperature should be controlled at ≤150℃ to avoid hot cracks and chromium-poor zones. ‌ ‌

Tungsten inert gas welding (TIG) ‌

Principle: An arc is generated by using a tungsten electrode under the protection of an inert gas (such as argon), and the welding wire can be filled manually or automatically. ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌

Applicable scenarios: Thin plates, pipes and high-precision welding. The weld quality is high but the speed is slow. ‌ ‌

Key points of the process: Oil stains on the joints need to be cleaned, and the current and welding speed should be controlled to reduce deformation. ‌ ‌

Gas shielded metal arc welding (MIG/MAG) ‌

Principle: Continuously fed metal wires serve as electrodes and filling materials, and the welding is carried out under the protection of inert or active gases. ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌

Applicable scenarios: Automated welding of medium and heavy plates, featuring high efficiency but relatively high equipment costs. ‌ ‌

Key points of the process: It is necessary to avoid the influence of outdoor wind speed on the gas protection effect

Our work flow chart for the customized welding and  bending products as belows:

Product Advantage of Stainless Steel Bent and Welded Components:

• Superior Corrosion Resistance: 304 stainless steel provides excellent resistance to rust, oxidation, and corrosion in a wide range of environments (atmospheric, chemical, food processing), ensuring long-term durability and reliability.

• High Strength & Durability: Offers excellent mechanical strength and toughness, capable of withstanding significant loads, impacts, and harsh conditions without deformation or failure.

• Design Flexibility & Complex Shapes: The combination of precision bending and skilled welding allows for the creation of custom, complex geometries and structures that are difficult or impossible to achieve with standard stock shapes.

• Structural Integrity: Welding creates strong, permanent joints, ensuring the components function as a cohesive and robust structural element.

• Hygienic Surface: The smooth, non-porous surface of stainless steel, combined with the brushed finish (which is easier to clean than a rough texture), makes these components suitable for applications requiring hygiene, such as food processing, medical equipment, or laboratories. Complies with FDA/NSF requirements where applicable.

  
  

Product use of Stainless Steel Bent and Welded Components：

• Architectural & Construction:

• Handrails & Guardrails: Durable, corrosion-resistant, and aesthetically pleasing for indoor/outdoor stairs, balconies, and walkways. The brushed finish hides wear and fingerprints.

• Structural Framing & Supports: Custom frames for glass canopies, partitions, signage, light fixtures, and decorative features requiring strength and a clean look.

• Facade Elements & Cladding Supports: Brackets, connectors, and custom profiles for attaching architectural panels.

• Food & Beverage Processing/Hygienic Environments:

• Equipment Frames & Guards: Support structures for mixers, conveyors, fillers, and packaging machines. Easy to clean and sanitize; meets hygiene standards (FDA/NSF).

• Work Tables, Shelving & Trolleys: Non-porous surfaces resist bacteria; brushed finish withstands cleaning chemicals and hides scratches.

• Piping Supports & Conveyor Components: Custom brackets, chutes, and guides requiring corrosion resistance and washdown capability.

• Medical & Laboratory Equipment:

• Instrument Frames & Carts: Sturdy, cleanable bases and structures for diagnostic devices, surgical equipment, and mobile workstations.

• Cabinet & Enclosure Framing: Support structures requiring hygiene and a professional appearance.

Packaging:

FAQ:

1Q: Does the 304 stainless steel meet industry standards like ASTM A240/A276?

1A: Yes. Our components are manufactured from certified 304 (UNS S30400) stainless steel conforming to ASTM A240/A276 specifications, ensuring guaranteed composition (18-20% Cr, 8-10.5% Ni) and corrosion resistance.

2Q: How durable is the brushed finish against wear and cleaning?

2A: The directional satin finish provides superior resistance to fine scratches, scuffs, and fingerprint visibility compared to polished finishes. It withstands routine cleaning with mild detergents and non-abrasive tools without significant degradation.

3Q: What welding processes are used, and how is weld integrity ensured?

3A: Components are primarily joined using Gas Tungsten Arc Welding (GTAW/TIG) for high-purity, controlled, and aesthetic welds. Weld integrity is maintained through qualified procedures, skilled operators, and visual/dye penetrant inspection (as specified).

4Q: Is this material suitable for frequent exposure to chlorides (e.g., coastal areas, food sanitizers)?

4A: 304 offers excellent general corrosion resistance. For frequent high-chloride exposure (e.g., salt spray, bleach solutions >1%), we recommend upgrading to 316/L (UNS S31600/S31603) for enhanced pitting and crevice corrosion resistance.

5Q: What are the capabilities and lead times for custom bent & welded shapes?

5A: We specialize in complex geometries via CNC bending and precision welding. Capabilities depend on dimensions, bend radii, and complexity. Lead times vary; please submit drawings for a specific quote. Prototype and production runs are accommodated.