ASTM A240 3mm Thickness 304 Stainless Steel Plate Tolerance Range
Thickness Tolerance for 3mm 304 Stainless Steel Plate According to ASTM A6/A6M-23 and ASTM A240/A240M-23
The thickness tolerance for 3mm thick 304 stainless steel plates (approximately 0.118 inches) primarily depends on the production process (cold-rolled vs. hot-rolled) and the precision grade. The details are as follows:
1. Cold-Rolled 304 Stainless Steel Plate (Cold-Rolled)
Thickness Tolerance (Width ≤ 1524mm / approx. 60 inches)
| Nominal Thickness | Normal Tolerance | Close Tolerance |
|---|---|---|
| 3mm (0.118in) | ±0.13mm (±0.005in) | ±0.08mm (±0.003in) |
Explanation:
Normal Tolerance applies to most general applications.
Close Tolerance must be specifically requested in the order (e.g., "Precision Cold-Rolled Plate").
When the width exceeds 1524mm, the tolerance may slightly increase (e.g., ±0.15mm), and this should be verified with the supplier's specific standards.
2. Hot-Rolled 304 Stainless Steel Plate (Hot-Rolled)
Thickness Tolerance (Width ≤ 1524mm / approx. 60 inches)
| Nominal Thickness | Normal Tolerance | Close Tolerance |
|---|---|---|
| 3mm (0.118in) | ±0.23mm (±0.009in) | ±0.15mm (±0.006in) |
Explanation:
Hot-rolled plates have a lower surface precision than cold-rolled plates, resulting in a larger tolerance range, making them suitable for structural, non-precision applications.
When the width exceeds 1524mm, the normal tolerance may increase to ±0.30mm (±0.012in).
Summary
For 3mm thick 304 stainless steel plate, the ASTM thickness tolerance is as follows:
Cold-Rolled Plate:
Normal Tolerance: ±0.13mm
Close Tolerance: ±0.08mm
Hot-Rolled Plate:
Normal Tolerance: ±0.23mm
Close Tolerance: ±0.15mm
Procurement advice: When placing an order, the standard version (such as "ASTM A240-23"), processing technology (cold rolling/hot rolling) and precision level must be clearly marked. If necessary, ask the supplier to provide a material report (Mill Test Report) to verify tolerance compliance.








