304 stainless steel is a general-purpose steel alloy that can be easily welded or formed. It has a high resistance to heat and corrosion, and will respond well to hardening by cold working. Made up of 8 percent nickel and 18 percent chromium, it has good oxidation resistance when used in temperatures up to 1,600°F. This 304 stainless steel meets ASTM A276 specifications.