What Is the Difference Between 201 and 304 Stainless Steel Sheets?
As a stainless steel manufacturer, I frequently encounter clients struggling to choose between 201 and 304 grades. The decision impacts both performance and budget considerations. **The main difference lies in their chemical composition1 – 201 contains less nickel and more manganese than 304, resulting in different corrosion resistance and cost profiles. 304 offers superior corrosion […]
What Does “BA Finish” Mean for Stainless Steel Coils?
After years in stainless steel manufacturing, I’ve noticed growing interest in BA finish among clients seeking premium surface quality. This specialized finish deserves detailed exploration. Bright Annealed (BA) finish is a highly reflective, mirror-like surface treatment achieved through specialized heat treatment in controlled atmospheres, offering superior smoothness and aesthetic appeal compared to standard finishes. In […]
Can Stainless Steel Be Painted?
As a stainless steel manufacturer, I’ve encountered numerous clients struggling with paint adhesion issues on stainless steel surfaces, leading to costly refinishing and maintenance problems. Yes, stainless steel can be painted successfully with proper surface preparation and appropriate paint selection. The key is using specific primers and paints designed for stainless steel, combined with thorough […]
Why Are Stainless Steel Pipes Used in Water Treatment?
In my years of supplying materials to water treatment facilities, I’ve seen countless engineers struggle with pipe material selection, often learning the hard way that inferior materials lead to costly system failures and contamination risks. Stainless steel pipes1 are essential in water treatment due to their superior corrosion resistance, durability, and ability to maintain water […]
What Is the Difference Between Stainless Steel Sheets and Plates?
As a stainless steel manufacturer, I’ve noticed increasing confusion among buyers about the distinction between sheets and plates. This crucial difference impacts both cost and application effectiveness. Stainless steel sheets and plates differ primarily in thickness – sheets are typically under 6mm while plates are 6mm and thicker. This distinction affects their applications, manufacturing processes, […]
What Does “2B Finish” Mean for Stainless Steel Coils?
As a stainless steel manufacturer, I’ve noticed increasing confusion about 2B finish among clients. This common yet misunderstood surface finish deserves clear explanation. The 2B finish is a widely-used stainless steel surface treatment achieved through cold rolling, heat treating, and light rolling processes, resulting in a semi-reflective, smooth surface ideal for various industrial applications. Having […]