Composition and Corrosion Resistance
304 stainless steel: Contains 18% chromium + 8% nickel (Cr18Ni8), forms a dense oxide film on the surface, has strong tolerance to acid, alkali, salt and humid environment, and is especially suitable for coastal areas and food contact scenarios.
201 stainless steel: Contains 16% chromium + 3.5% nickel + high manganese (Mn5.5-7.5%), has weaker corrosion resistance than 304, and is prone to rust when exposed to humid or corrosive environment for a long time.
Mechanical Properties
Hardness: 201 stainless steel has higher hardness (230HB vs 170HB of 304), suitable for wear-resistant scenarios (such as furniture brackets, decorative parts).
Toughness: 304 stainless steel has excellent cold processing performance, and is not easy to crack during stretching and welding; 201 has poor toughness and is easy to break during processing.
Economical
Price: The unit price of 304 stainless steel is about 50,000 yuan/ton, which is 5,000-10,000 yuan/ton higher than 201 (due to the difference in nickel content).
Life cost: 304 has low maintenance cost (no frequent anti-rust treatment is required), and long-term use has better cost performance.
| Indicators | 304 stainless steel plate | 201 stainless steel plate |
| Corrosion resistance requirements | Food processing equipment, medical equipment, coastal building facades, chemical pipelines | Interior decoration in dry environment (elevator door panels, furniture frames), municipal engineering signboards |
| Strength requirements | Load-bearing structural parts (such as kitchenware brackets), high-pressure environment equipment | Wear-resistant non-load-bearing parts (such as lighting accessories, watch strap bottom covers) |
| Budget constraints | Sufficient budget and pursuit of long-term stability | Short-term projects or cost-sensitive scenarios |
Scenario where 304 is preferred:
Contact with water, acidic and alkaline substances (such as sinks and stoves);
High humidity or coastal areas (such as seaside hotel exteriors);
Food-grade hygiene requirements (such as tableware, food processing equipment).
Scenario where 201 can be selected:
Dry interior decoration (such as shopping mall handrails and ceilings);
Short-term use or non-critical components (such as temporary display racks);
Limited budget and acceptable regular anti-rust maintenance.
Conclusion: There is no absolute advantage or disadvantage between the two. 304 has stronger comprehensive performance but high cost, and 201 has outstanding economic performance but needs to match the applicable environment. It is recommended to make a comprehensive selection based on corrosion risk, budget, and maintenance capability.
