Is Stainless Steel Magnetic?
As a stainless steel manufacturer, I’ve noticed increasing confusion among buyers about magnetic properties of different grades. This uncertainty often leads to costly material selection mistakes. The magnetic properties of stainless steel depend primarily on its crystal structure and composition. While austenitic grades (300 series)1 are generally non-magnetic, ferritic and martensitic grades (400 series)2 exhibit […]
What Are the Most Commonly Used Grades of Stainless Steel?
As a stainless steel manufacturer, I’ve noticed buyers often struggle with grade selection, leading to costly mistakes in material choices that impact project success and longevity. The most commonly used grades of stainless steel are 304, 316, 430, and 22051, with 304 and 316 dominating about 70% of global stainless steel applications due to their […]
What Are the Grades of Stainless Steel?
As a stainless steel manufacturer, I’ve noticed increasing confusion among buyers about choosing the right steel grade. Many end up with unsuitable materials due to misunderstanding grade specifications. Stainless steel grades are categorized into five main series1: 200, 300, 400, 500, and 600, with the 300 and 400 series being most common. Each series offers […]
Is Stainless Steel More Expensive Than Other Metals?
Throughout my career in metal manufacturing and procurement, I’ve frequently addressed questions about stainless steel pricing compared to other metals1. This cost comparison is crucial for project planning and material selection. Stainless steel is generally more expensive than common metals like carbon steel and aluminum, but less expensive than specialty metals like titanium. However, its […]
Is Stainless Steel Stronger Than Copper?
Throughout my career in materials engineering and metallurgy, I’ve frequently addressed questions about the relative strength of stainless steel and copper. This comparison is crucial for various applications, from plumbing systems to electrical installations. Stainless steel1 is generally stronger than copper2, with tensile strength typically 2-3 times higher and significantly greater hardness. However, copper offers […]
Which is More Durable, Stainless Steel or Plastic?
Throughout my career in materials engineering and product development, I’ve frequently addressed questions about the durability of stainless steel versus plastic. This comparison is crucial for various applications, from consumer products to industrial equipment. Stainless steel1 generally demonstrates superior durability compared to plastic, offering better strength, temperature resistance, and longevity. However, plastics can offer advantages […]
What Are the Differences Between Stainless Steel and Titanium?
Throughout my career in metallurgy and materials engineering, I’ve frequently been asked to compare stainless steel and titanium. This comparison is crucial for industries ranging from aerospace to medical implants. While both stainless steel and titanium1 offer excellent properties, they differ significantly in strength-to-weight ratio, corrosion resistance, and cost. Titanium generally offers superior strength-to-weight ratio […]
Is Stainless Steel Better Than Aluminum?
Throughout my career in metal manufacturing and consulting, I’ve frequently been asked to compare stainless steel and aluminum. This question, while seemingly straightforward, requires careful consideration of various factors and specific application requirements. Whether stainless steel is "better" than aluminum depends entirely on the application requirements. Each material has distinct advantages: stainless steel offers superior […]
What Is Ferritic Stainless Steel?
In my years of manufacturing stainless steel products, I’ve seen ferritic grades emerge as an excellent cost-effective solution for many applications. Their unique properties often surprise engineers who are primarily familiar with austenitic grades. Ferritic stainless steel is a magnetic grade containing 10.5-30% chromium1 with minimal nickel content, characterized by good corrosion resistance, excellent formability, […]
What Is Duplex Stainless Steel?
In my years of manufacturing specialty stainless steels, I’ve seen duplex grades revolutionize how we approach challenging industrial applications. This unique material combines the best properties of two different stainless steel families. Duplex stainless steel is a specialized grade combining approximately equal amounts of austenitic and ferritic structures, typically containing 21-25% chromium, 4-7% nickel, and […]