You are probably aware that the term “stainless steel” doesn’t refer to one particular alloy but a group of iron-based alloys that contain at least a minimum of 10.5% chromium. Other elements are often added and the chromium content boosted to increase the metal’s heat-resisting and corrosion resistance properties. This helps to improve the metal’s mechanical properties and fabrication characteristics.
Today, there are dozens of grades used to highlight the different variations available with stainless steel. These grades are universally recognised by steel-based authorities. However, there are 3 classifications generally used to represent stainless steel.
- Type 304: This type of stainless steel is easily available in many product forms. It is easy to fabricate and form, showing exceptional resistance to corrosion.
Nonmagnetic in nature, Type 304 can resist a variety of oxidizing acids, sterilizing solutions, and several organic/inorganic chemicals. It is used to manufacture food processing equipment, chemical containers, automotive components, aerospace components, roof, cladding and doors.
- Type 316: This type of stainless steel is quite similar to Type 304 with the main difference being the addition or presence of molybdenum (3%). This helps Type 316 withstand corrosive attacks by calcium and sodium brine, phosphoric acid, hypochlorite solutions and sulfurous acids.
Type 316 is popularly used in the medical and pharmaceutical industries to build medically-safe equipment. It also finds extensive use in applications that use potable water and wastewater treatment, architectural applications and marine applications.
- Type 430: This type of stainless steel is used mainly for kitchen-based utensils and tables. It does not contain molybdenum or nickel and is therefore less expensive than Type 304 and Type 316. Type 430 offers minimal weldability and therefore is not used in impact or dynamic load structures.
Along with Type 304, 430 ranks among the most popular and common grades available in stainless steel. However, Type 430 is more budget-friendly because it doesn’t offer the same corrosion resistance as the 300 series. It is also used to create industrial tubes and pipes, washing machine parts and automotive components.
Which stainless steel is the best?
As mentioned earlier, Type 430 is suitable for milder applications such as utensils and other equipment for the kitchen. If you are looking for stainless steel that offers higher benefits, then you should choose from 304 or 316. There is not much differentiating between the two but the following pointers will help you make a decision:
- Environment: Both 304 and 316 are capable of coping in highly-corrosive environments. However, salty, acidic and chloride environments will require Type 316 because it has molybdenum that ensures higher corrosion resistance.
- Temperature: Environments subjected to high temperatures (< 454 ℃ and > 843 ℃) will need Type 316.
- Budget: Type 304 is significantly cheaper than 316. So, if you are looking for a budget-friendly option, then 304 is for you.
So, the best stainless steel grade is 316. However, its exorbitant price ensures that 304 is the most popular variant.
At Shubhlaxmi, we have the finest stainless steel products that can last a lifetime. Our products are built from the finest grades to offer our customers a durable experience like never before. From corrugated tubes to welded pipes and tubes to section tubes, we offer a wide range of products that can meet your diverse requirements.
Get in touch with us (+91-22-49710050 or sales@shubhlaxmigroup.com) and our team will quickly attend to your stainless steel requirements.
Note: The information provided in this article is based on research conducted by the Shubhlaxmi team. You can finalise the product from our inventory based on your requirement and the industry you belong to.
No comments yet.