At Proline Range Hoods, we use premium-grade 304 and 430 stainless steel in the manufacturing of our professional quality range hoods. Well, what does this mean and what’s the difference between them?

There are many different types and grades of stainless steel used for various applications in industries around the world. In kitchen appliances, the two most commonly used premium-grade stainless steel are 430 and 304. While both can produce excellent quality products that resist corrosion and rust, there are some key differences between the two. Let’s take a look at the comparison:

430 Stainless Steel

• Premium-grade stainless steel grade used in kitchen appliances
• Quality brushed finish
• Can only be hardened by cold work and heat treatment
• Magnetic
• Can be polished & restored to original finish if corrosion is stopped early on
• Acidic-corrosion resistance against organic substances that are created during cooking
• Atmospheric-corrosion resistance

This premium-grade stainless steel is used in professional kitchens by the well-known high-end kitchen appliance brands like Wolf, Thermador, Viking and Proline’s industrial quality range hoods.

304 Stainless Steel

• Highly resistant to corrosion – used mostly in humid weather where it can oxidate steel quickly (making it excellent for outdoor range hoods)
• Non-magnetic until cold worked.
• Chromium and nickel make it resistant to heat treatment
• Used in the food industry because of its tasteless property and corrosion resistance
• Easily handled and welded
• Stronger than most materials

Premium-grade 304 stainless steel is used in appliances and hardware that will be in constant contact with water, because of its corrosion resistance. It also has a faint yellow color that gives a more high end feeling to it. Most outdoor range hoods will have this in our products.

Used in the majority of kitchen appliances, 430-grade stainless steel offers superior corrosion resistance when compared to other steel finishes. 430 is fantastic steel for indoor applications. It can work for outdoor applications if dry and in a protected area, although we don’t recommend it. Just keep it clean and/or polish it as needed and it will last for years to come.

304 stainless steel is a premium grade steel is used in outdoor applications that need extra protection from moisture to prevent rust and corrosion and keep that sharp new look for decades.  Some 304 stainless applications have greater corrosion resistance at a broad range of different temperatures to even include desalination plants, sewage plants, offshore oil rigs, harbor supports, and ship propellers. 304 is no joke, and we even offer a few Proline Range hoods in 304 for those extra demanding situations.

No matter what grade of stainless steel your stove hood is, it will be a great quality item that can last a long time with the proper care and maintenance. Regular cleaning and polishing will increase the longevity of your hood, and keep it looking its best for a very long time. We have included some great videos on the care, cleaning, and restoration of your range hood that you could use on any stainless steel appliance.