Four grades cover most stainless purchases. The differences come down to nickel and molybdenum content, and they decide both price and service life.

Austenitic grades: 201, 304, 316L

• 201: lower nickel (3.5-5.5 percent), cheaper, slightly less corrosion resistant. Standard for indoor decoration, furniture tubes and general trim.
• 304: the workhorse, 8-10.5 percent nickel. Good rust resistance for kitchens, food equipment, water and architecture.
• 316L: adds 2-3 percent molybdenum and low carbon. The choice for chemical, marine, coastal and medical environments.

Ferritic grade: 430

430 is magnetic, contains no nickel, and costs clearly less than 304. It resists oxidation in mild environments and is standard for appliance panels, kitchen backsplashes and indoor decorative parts.

Practical selection rules

• Indoor decoration on a budget: 201.
• General outdoor, food and water contact: 304.
• Chlorides, coastal air or chemicals: 316L, no exceptions.
• Indoor appliance panels: 430 saves real money.

How we supply

Stainless steel sheet and plate from 0.3 to 100 mm, cold rolled coil in 2B, BA and mirror surfaces with deep drawing available, and seamless or welded pipe. Mill test certificates with heat chemistry for every shipment.

Related reading

• Hot Rolled vs Cold Rolled Steel: A Buyer's Guide
• Carbon Steel vs Stainless Steel: How to Choose
• Seamless vs Welded Steel Pipe: Which to Specify?