How to choose stainless steel 201 and stainless steel 304?
1. Composition and manufacturing process
304 stainless steel: 304 stainless steel is a chromium-nickel stainless steel, whose main alloying elements are chromium (Cr) and nickel (Ni), usually containing 18% chromium and 8% nickel. This material has good corrosion resistance and processing properties and is widely used in various fields.
201 stainless steel: 201 stainless steel is a chromium-manganese-nitrogen stainless steel, whose main alloying elements are chromium (Cr), manganese (Mn) and nitrogen (N). Compared with 304 stainless steel, 201 stainless steel has a lower nickel content and a higher manganese content. This material maintains a certain corrosion resistance while reducing costs.
In terms of composition, the nickel content of 304 stainless steel is higher than that of 201 stainless steel, which makes 304 stainless steel perform better in corrosion resistance and toughness. 201 stainless steel reduces costs by increasing the content of manganese and nitrogen while maintaining a certain corrosion resistance.
2. Performance comparison
Corrosion resistance: 304 stainless steel has good corrosion resistance due to its high content of chromium and nickel elements, especially in acidic environments. However, 201 stainless steel has relatively poor corrosion resistance and is susceptible to corrosion and oxidation.
Toughness: 304 stainless steel has high toughness, can maintain good plasticity during cold processing, and is not easy to crack. However, the toughness of 201 stainless steel is relatively low, and it is necessary to pay attention to controlling the deformation during processing.
Strength: Although the toughness of 201 stainless steel is low, its strength is relatively high. This makes 201 stainless steel have certain advantages in certain occasions where it needs to withstand greater stress.
Weldability: 304 stainless steel has good weldability and can be connected by various welding methods. However, the weldability of 201 stainless steel is relatively poor, and specific welding processes and parameters are required. When the size of the commercial stainless steel sink you purchase is different from the mold, you can choose welding.
3. Application field
304 stainless steel: Due to its excellent corrosion resistance and toughness, 304 stainless steel is widely used in food processing, medical equipment, chemical equipment, architectural decoration and other fields. In these fields, the corrosion resistance and hygiene requirements of materials are high, so 304 stainless steel becomes the preferred material.
201 stainless steel: Due to its high strength and low cost, 201 stainless steel is used in some occasions where the material requirements are not high, such as furniture, kitchenware, architectural decoration, etc. For example, our stainless steel sink and table, wash hand basin, workstation, wall mounted shelf. These fields do not require high corrosion resistance and toughness of materials, and pay more attention to cost-effectiveness.
4. Price and cost
Because 304 stainless steel contains a high nickel element, its manufacturing cost is relatively high, so the price is more expensive. 201 stainless steel reduces costs by reducing the nickel content and increasing the manganese and nitrogen content, so the price is relatively low. When choosing stainless steel materials, it is necessary to weigh the budget and application requirements.
5. Comprehensive evaluation and suggestions
In summary, 304 stainless steel and 201 stainless steel each have their own advantages and applicable scenarios. When choosing which stainless steel is better, it should be comprehensively considered according to the specific application requirements.
If the material has high requirements for corrosion resistance and toughness, and the budget allows, it is recommended to choose 304 stainless steel. For example, in the fields of food processing, medical equipment, etc., 304 stainless steel should be preferred to ensure product quality and safety.
If the material strength and cost requirements are high, and the requirements for corrosion resistance and toughness are relatively low, 201 stainless steel can be selected. For example, in the fields of furniture, kitchenware, etc., 201 stainless steel can be considered to reduce costs. Kitchenware such as hotels, coffee shops, canteens, engineering projects require stainless steel wash basin, prep table with sink, double sink top, etc.
