Literally, stainless steel product is a product will never rust. However, is this true? Actually, some stainless steel product have possible to rust in corrosive environments. Thus, choosing appropriate stainless steel is very important. Generally, ITOP’s stainless steel products is made by 201 or 304 stainless steel. Both of these two materials wont rust in normal environment. 304 price is relative higher but it would be a better option for operating in abnormal (bad) environment.

Difference between 304 and 201
Material 304 201
Ingredient 0Cr18Ni9 1Cr17Mn6Ni5N
Anti-corrosion Strong, nickel 8-10% Weak, nickel 1-2%
Rust wont rust in corrosive environment will rust in corrosive environment
Price Price of 304 stainless steel is 60% higher than the price of 201 stainless steel.

 

Identification of 201 and 304
Methods 304 201 Remarks
Visual Estimation:

Observe their luster directly.

Luster is relatively brighter than 201 Luster is relatively darker than 304 This method requires rich experience
Chemical test:

Drop chemical liquid to corrode the surface of materials.

No change Material turns red This method is easy but it brings an accurate result.
Laboratory test:

Send samples of materials to the authorized institutions for inspection.

Nickel 8-10% Nickel 1-2% This method require a long time to get result

According to the above comparisons, ITOP chose Chemical test to differentiate 304 stainless steel and 201 stainless steel.