If you’ve ever looked into stainless steel, you’ve likely come across the two most popular grades; 304 and 202. But what’s the difference between them? With a few key points in mind, you can make an informed decision when choosing between these two options. Let’s take a closer look at understanding the differences between 304 and 202-grade stainless steel.
Difference Between 304 and 202 Stainless Steel Grades
Composition
The main difference between these two grades of stainless steel lies in their composition. Grade 304 is composed of 18% chromium and 8% nickel, while grade 202 is composed of 17% chromium and 7% nickel. This difference might seem minor, but it makes a big impact on how durable each type of material is. In terms of corrosion resistance, grade 304 is more resistant than grade 202. Additionally, grade 304 has higher levels of carbon content which makes it slightly harder than grade 202.
202 vs 304 Stainless Steel Price
When it comes to price, there are also some differences to consider when choosing between these two grades of stainless steel. Generally speaking, grade 304 is more expensive due to its higher levels of corrosion resistance and durability. On the other hand, grade 202 is cheaper but has lower levels of corrosion resistance, so it may not last as long as grade 304 in certain applications. That said, if cost is your primary concern, then you may find that buying grade 202 is more economical in the long run since it may need to be replaced less often than grade 304 material.
Applications for Each Grade
Another important factor to consider when selecting between these two grades is what application they can be used for. Grade 304 stainless steel can be used in many different applications, from kitchen appliances to outdoor furniture, due to its high level of corrosion resistance and durability. On the other hand, grade 202 stainless steel can be used for low-stress applications such as cutlery or indoor decorative items due to its lower level of corrosion resistance, but it still provides good strength and hardness compared to other types of materials.
Corrosion Resistance
Another key difference between grade 304 and grade 202 stainless steel is their resistance to corrosion. Grade 304 stainless steel is more resistant to corrosion than grade 202 stainless steel. This is due to the higher chromium and nickel content in grade 304 stainless steel, which provides greater resistance to corrosion than the lower levels found in grade 202 stainless steel.
Heat Resistance
Grade 304 stainless steel is also more heat resistant than grade 202 stainless steel. This is due to the higher chromium content in grade 304 stainless steel, which provides greater resistance to oxidation at high temperatures.
Applications
Grade 304 stainless steel is commonly used in kitchen appliances, architectural panelling, medical equipment, automotive trim, and chemical processing equipment, while grade 202 stainless steel is commonly used in food processing equipment, kitchen utensils, and architectural panelling.
Conclusion:
When selecting between grades 302 and 202 stainless steel, there are several factors that should be taken into consideration, including composition, price point, and intended application use case. Ultimately, choosing the right material will depend on what type of project you are doing and how much you are willing or able to spend on materials upfront, with upkeep in mind later down the line if necessary. For home DIYers or architects seeking a reliable yet cost-effective option for projects requiring strong yet malleable material properties, then either 302 or 202 could potentially fit your needs depending on the specifics involved with your project!
A passionate metal industry expert and blogger. With over 5 years of experience in the field, Palak brings a wealth of knowledge and insight to her writing. Whether discussing the latest trends in the metal industry or sharing tips, she is dedicated to helping others succeed in the metal industry.
