How to Identify Genuine 304 Stainless Steel Plate and Avoid Counterfeit Materials

In today’s global market, 304 Stainless Steel Plate is one of the most popular materials for manufacturing and construction. However, due to high demand and fluctuating raw material prices, counterfeit or low-grade stainless steel products often enter the supply chain — leading to performance issues, corrosion, or even safety risks.

If you want to protect your project’s quality and reputation, it’s essential to know how to identify genuine 304 stainless steel plate and avoid counterfeit materials.

 1. Check the Chemical Composition

The first step in identifying genuine 304 stainless steel is verifying its chemical composition.

True 304 stainless steel contains:

• Chromium (Cr): 18–20%

• Nickel (Ni): 8–10.5%

• Carbon (C): ≤0.08%

• Manganese (Mn): ≤2.0%

• Silicon (Si): ≤1.0%

 Tip: Counterfeit or low-grade stainless steels often reduce nickel content to cut costs, replacing it with cheaper elements such as manganese or copper — significantly reducing corrosion resistance.

To verify this, request a Mill Test Certificate (MTC) or Material Test Report (MTR) from the supplier.

 2. Perform a Magnet Test

While not 100% conclusive, a magnet test is a quick field method to distinguish genuine 304 stainless steel from cheaper grades.

• 304 stainless steel is non-magnetic in its annealed state.

• However, cold working (bending, rolling, or welding) may introduce slight magnetism.

• 430 stainless steel (a common substitute) is strongly magnetic.

 Tip: If a sample is strongly attracted to a magnet, it’s likely not pure 304 stainless steel.

 3. Check Surface Finish and Color

Genuine 304 stainless steel has a bright, smooth, and silver-gray surface.
Counterfeit or low-grade materials often show:

• Dull or yellowish tint (indicating impurities or poor finishing)

• Uneven grain or rough texture

• Rust spots or stains appearing soon after exposure to moisture

 Tip: A simple visual inspection can often identify inconsistencies in polish, finish, or coating quality.

 4. Conduct a Chemical or Spark Test

For industrial applications, a more accurate verification method involves laboratory analysis or portable testing equipment:

• X-Ray Fluorescence (XRF) Analyzer: Detects precise elemental composition.

• Spark Test: Observes spark color and pattern when grinding; stainless steel emits short, reddish sparks.

• Acid Test: When nitric acid is applied, 304 stainless steel resists corrosion, while mild steel reacts and rusts quickly.

 Tip: Always perform these tests in a controlled environment or through an accredited lab to confirm authenticity.