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Stainless Steel Sinks
Which is better for kitchen sinks, type 302 or type 304 stainless steel?
Type 304 stainless steel has become the standard for 18-8 stainless:18% chromium (CR) and 8% nickel (NI). Most kitchen sink manufacturers have changed from 302 to 304 since new technology makes it possible to produce type 304 economically.
The two grades of stainless steel have similar chromium content. It is the lower carbon content of the grade 304 that may give it a slight edge on resistance to corrosion.
The tensile strength of 302 is slightly better than 304 in cold rolled manufacture.
Type 302 is non-magnetic in annealed form and slightly magnetic when cold formed. Type 304 is generally non-magnetic because of its low carbon content. Using a magnet to check whether a steel sink is stainless or not may distinguish between a type 430 and 302 (or 304), but it is not wise to use this “test” to distinguish between 302 and 304. Also be careful that your magnet does not become attracted to a steel reinforcing piece under the rim of the sink and give you a false “reading”.
Bottom line: Type 304 stainless steel may be a little more corrosion resistant than 302. In kitchen sink applications, most people would not notice any difference.