Stainless Steel, or Stainless for short, is a metal alloy made up of various elements such as Nickel, Chromium, Copper, Iron, Carbon, Manganese, and Silicon, among others. This material is known for its high durability, corrosion resistance, and ability to retain its color, making it an excellent choice for manufacturing everyday household items.

The durability of stainless steel depends on the mixture of alloys such as Chromium and Carbon. A higher Chromium content in the steel results in better oxidation resistance. The most common types of stainless steel used today are 201, 304, 316, 301, and 430.

Characteristics of Stainless Steel

The characteristics of stainless steel can be categorized into four main groups, each with several subdivisions:

  • Austenitic: SUS 301, 304, 304L, 316, 316L, 321, and 310s, among others.
  • Ferritic: SUS 409, 410, and 430.
  • Austenitic-Ferritic (Duplex): LDX 2101, SAF 2304, 2205, and 253MA.
  • Martensitic: 420S45 and 248SV.

In general, the characteristics of stainless steel include the following:

Alloy Group Magnetism Corrosion Resistance Ductility Heat Resistance
Austenitic No High Very High Very High
Duplex Yes Very High Medium Low
Ferritic Yes Medium Medium High
Martensitic Yes Medium Low Low
Phase Stabilized Yes Medium Medium Low
Stainless Steel has 4 main groups of characteristics with various subdivisions.

Common Types of Stainless Steel

Stainless steel is an iron alloy with a minimum chromium content of 10.5%. It is known for its resistance to corrosion and discoloration compared to regular steel. It can withstand harsh environments, high humidity, and outdoor weather conditions without rusting, making it an excellent material for various manufacturing industries.
There are hundreds of different grades of stainless steel, categorized into four main types: austenitic, ferritic, duplex, and martensitic. Austenitic stainless steel, such as SUS 201, 304, and 316, is the most common type, followed by ferritic grades like 430 and 410, and duplex grades like 201.
Common Types of Stainless Steel

Comparing Common Types of Stainless Steel

This article will compare four of the most common types of stainless steel on the market: 304, 316, 201, and 430.

Stainless Steel 304

304 stainless steel is a widely used material globally. It contains approximately 10.5% nickel and 20% chromium by weight, making it highly resistant to corrosion and meeting absolute user demands.

Stainless Steel 201

Currently, 201 stainless steel is the most commonly used type due to its quality and suitable size. It contains less nickel, replaced by 7.1% manganese. Stainless Steel 201 is an early type of stainless steel with relatively low corrosion resistance. While it does resist corrosion, it is not as effective as other types, but it compensates with its affordable price.

Stainless Steel 316

316 stainless steel has the best corrosion resistance among the four common types. Its chemical composition includes Molybdenum (Mo), which is not present in the other three types, making it highly resistant to corrosive environments containing chlorides and fluorides.

Stainless Steel 430

Stainless Steel 430 contains at least 18% chromium and no nickel, making it the lowest quality among the four common types. It is more susceptible to corrosion and staining.

How to Distinguish Common Types of Stainless Steel

Using Acid

This is a common and accurate method with the lowest cost. Prepare samples of 201 and 304 stainless steel and a small amount of acid. Drop the acid onto both samples and observe the surfaces after 10 seconds.
If the steel turns reddish and bubbles, it is 201 stainless steel. If there is no reaction and the acid droplet remains gray, it is 304 stainless steel.
Testing stainless steel with acid

Using Specialized Testing Solutions

First, clean the stainless steel surfaces and then apply a drop of the testing solution. Wait for about 3 minutes, and if you notice a color change, compare it to the color chart on the box to identify the type of stainless steel. A darker color indicates lower quality.
If the solution turns red but the red color does not fade after 5 seconds, it is 316 stainless steel. If it turns red but fades immediately, it is 304. If the solution turns black or does not change color, it is either 201 or 430. You can use a magnet to further distinguish between 201 and 430.
Using molybdenum testing solution

Using Toilet Bowl Cleaner

Prepare four stainless steel samples and use a scouring pad to scratch the surfaces. Apply toilet bowl cleaner to the scratched areas and wait for 20 minutes. If any of the samples turn yellowish, they are either 201 or 430, while those that remain unchanged are 304 or 316. Use other methods to distinguish further between the types.
Using toilet bowl cleaner to test stainless steel

Using a Magnet

Simply use a magnet to test the four samples. If the magnet strongly attracts a sample, it is 430; if it attracts it weakly, it is 201. If there is slight attraction or no attraction at all, it is 304, and if the magnet does not attract the sample at all, it is 316.
Using a magnet to distinguish stainless steel types
Note: Do not use a magnet to test finished stainless steel products, as the magnetism of the finished product may affect the accuracy of the test.

Frequently Asked Questions About Stainless Steel

What is Stainless Steel?

Stainless steel, also known as corrosion-resistant steel, is an alloy made primarily of iron and chromium. It contains 1.2% or less carbon, giving it a high resistance to corrosion. In kitchen products, SUS304 (18Cr-8Ni) stainless steel is commonly used.

What is Stainless Steel, and How is it Used in Manufacturing?

Stainless steel is an iron alloy containing at least 10.5% chromium, known for its corrosion resistance and ability to withstand corrosive environments. In manufacturing, stainless steel is used to produce household goods, medical equipment, food industry applications, and more.

Why Doesn’t Stainless Steel Rust?

Chromium in stainless steel forms an oxide layer on the surface, preventing the iron inside from corroding.

How is Stainless Steel Fabricated?

Stainless steel can be fabricated through cutting, grinding, bending, welding, and polishing processes to create finished products.

What are the Main Forms of Stainless Steel Used in Manufacturing?

Stainless steel is commonly used to produce tubes, sheets, bars, wires, and household items such as showerheads and sinks.

How is a Smooth and Shiny Surface Created on Stainless Steel?

A shiny surface on stainless steel can be achieved through polishing and chromium plating processes.

Can Stainless Steel Withstand High Temperatures?

Yes, stainless steel has excellent heat resistance and is used in industries such as chemical and metallurgical engineering.

How is Stainless Steel Used in the Food Industry?

Stainless steel is used for food storage, cooking pots, water pipes, and various other applications in the food industry due to its safety and optimal characteristics.

Does Stainless Steel Have High Durability?

Yes, stainless steel has high durability, corrosion resistance, and chemical resistance, ensuring that products maintain their structural integrity and appearance over the long term.

How Should Stainless Steel Products be Stored and Cleaned?

Stainless steel products can be cleaned with warm water and soap. For storage, avoid corrosive chemicals and keep them in a dry place.

What Forms Does Stainless Steel Take in Mechanical Engineering?

Stainless steel can be formed into round or square tubes, solid bars, sheets, and various other shapes depending on the application in mechanical engineering.

Why is Stainless Steel a Good Choice for Medical Device Manufacturing?

Stainless steel is ideal for medical devices and surgical instruments due to its corrosion resistance, ease of cleaning, and durability.

How is Stainless Steel Welded?

Stainless steel welding requires TIG or MIG welding technology to prevent surface rust.

Does Stainless Steel Have Good Durability in Seawater Environments?

Yes, stainless steel has excellent corrosion resistance in seawater and is commonly used in shipbuilding and marine structures.

Why is Stainless Steel Called “Stainless”?

The name “stainless” comes from the French word “inoxydable,” meaning “not oxidizable,” referring to the steel’s corrosion resistance.

Can Stainless Steel be Recycled?

Yes, stainless steel can be recycled and reused to produce new products.

What are the Common Alloys of Stainless Steel?

SUS 304 and SUS 316 are common alloys, with chromium and nickel as their main components.

Is Stainless Steel Used in Renewable Energy Applications?

Yes, stainless steel is used in the production of components for renewable energy systems, such as solar and wind power.

Does Stainless Steel Have Any Disadvantages?

Stainless steel is generally more expensive than other types of steel and requires specialized fabrication techniques.

Is Stainless Steel Used in the Aerospace Industry?

Yes, stainless steel is used in aircraft and spacecraft manufacturing due to its durability and heat resistance.

What Advantages Does Stainless Steel Offer Over Other Materials in Manufacturing?

Stainless steel stands out for its corrosion resistance, chemical resistance, and aesthetic appeal, making it a preferred choice for various manufacturing applications.

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