Comparing 201 Stainless Steel Welded Pipes to 304 Stainless Steel Welded Pipes

You might be wondering about the difference between 201 and 304 stainless steel welded pipes.
Both types of stainless steel offer strength and durability, so it's important to understand the differences before making a purchase.

This article will introduce the chemical content, surface color, corrosion resistance, and fabrication between 201stainless steel welded pipes and 304 stainless steel welded pipe. The reader will understand all about the differences and help them choose the right material used in the right application.
stainless steel pipe

Differ Chemical Element Content Between AISI 201 Stainless Steel And 304 Stainless Steel

You may be aware that AISI 201 and 304 stainless steel welded pipes have different chemical element compositions.

The following format show the all the chemical content of both of them

Element

201 Stainless Steel

304 Stainless Steel

Chromium (Cr)

15%

18%

Nickel (Ni)

5%

9%

Manganese (Mn)

High

Low

Carbon (C)

≤ 0.15%

≤ 0.08%

Silicon (Si)

≤ 1%

≤ 1%

Phosphorus (P)

≤ 0.060%

≤ 0.045%

Sulfur (S)

≤ 0.030%

≤ 0.030%

Nitrogen (N)

≤ 0.25%

≤ 0.10%

The 201 stainless steel contains 15% chromium and 5% nickel while 304 stainless steel contains 18% chromium and 9% nickel. The difference in their composition can be observed in their corrosion resistance and toughness.

Comparing the composition of 201 and 304 stainless steel, you'll find that 304 has better corrosion resistance and toughness due to its higher nickel and chromium content. Therefore, if corrosion resistance is a priority, 304 stainless steel is a better choice than 201 stainless steel.

These differences make 304 stainless steel a better choice for many applications.Its superior corrosion resistance and toughness make it ideal for use in the food and medical industry, furniture decoration, and construction.

For more information about the chemical content of stainles steel , please vist an other blog of us: https://vinssco.com/grade-of-stainless-steel-pipe/

Magnetic Properties

You may have heard of 201 and 304 stainless steel when researching stainless steel products. But do you know the difference between them in terms of magnetic properties?

Let's take a look at the magnetic properties of both materials to get a better understanding of the differences between them.

201 stainless steel201 stainless steel is generally considered to be ferromagnetic, which means it can be attracted by a magnet. This is because it contains a significant amount of manganese and nitrogen, which can promote the formation of a ferromagnetic phase in the microstructure.

304 Stainless Steel304 stainless steel is usually non-magnetic in its annealed state (soft state). However, it can become somewhat magnetic when it is cold worked or welded. Cold working and welding can introduce stresses and change the microstructure of the material, causing some regions to become slightly magnetic. Still, it is generally considered to be less magnetic compared to 201 stainless steel.

In summary, the magnetic properties of stainless steel welded pipes depend on the specific alloy and their processing history. While 201 stainless steel is generally magnetic, 304 stainless steel is typically non-magnetic in its annealed state but can become slightly magnetic after cold working or welding. The choice between these materials depends on the intended application and the desired properties, including magnetic behavior and corrosion resistance.
Magnetic Properties

Strength and Durability

Compared to 304 stainless steel welded pipes, 201 stainless steel welded pipes are harder and more brittle. The strength and durability of 201 stainless steel pipes are due to their higher carbon content and lower nickel content.

201 stainless steel pipes are strong and long-lasting, but 304 is more corrosion-resistant. The choice between the two depends on the application and environment. Both stainless steels are great options when it comes to strength and durability.

Weldability

You've probably heard that welded pipes are strong and durable, but how weldable are 201 and 304 stainless steel welded pipes?

Welding techniques vary for each type of stainless steel, and welders must pay attention to the different levels of carbon and nickel content.

201 stainless steel welded pipes can be welded using the traditional shielding gas, but the welded joints must be annealed afterwards to improve their strength, ductility, and corrosion resistance.

On the other hand, 304 welded pipes can be welded using a gas mixture containing up to 25% carbon dioxide, which prevents weld cracking and improves corrosion resistance. However, 304 stainless steel welded pipes require preheating and post-weld heat treatment for optimum weld quality.
vinmay stainles steel welding
In general, 304 stainless steel welded pipes are more weldable than 201 stainless steel welded pipes. This is due to the higher nickel and chromium content, which allows for better weldability and corrosion resistance.

In conclusion, welders must take into consideration the different welding requirements of 201 and 304 stainless steel welded pipes for optimal weld quality. With the right techniques and materials, welders can ensure strong and durable welded joints.

Now let's move on to the stainless steel fabrication and application aspects.

 Stainless Steel Fabrication And Application Aspects

You may be wondering about the application range of 201 and 304 stainless steel welded pipes.

201 stainless steel welded pipes are mainly used for watchcases, watchband base covers, decorative pipes, and industrial pipes.

On the other hand, 304 stainless steel welded pipes are suitable for various applications, such as construction, furniture decoration, and the food and medical industry.

304 is more suitable for outdoor applications and is also preferred for food-grade applications. Furthermore, 304 stainless steel is tougher and more malleable than 201. This makes it a better choice for projects that require bending or welding.

Additionally, the environment in which these two types of stainless steel welded pipes are used is also important.

201 and 304 stainless steel welded pipes have different applications depending on the environment. 201 is suitable for dry indoor environments, while 304 is needed for outdoor environments due to its higher nickel content and better rust resistance. Generally, 304 is used for construction, furniture decoration, and the food and medical industry, while 201 is used for watchcases, watchband base covers, decorative pipes, and industrial pipes.

Here are four points to consider when choosing the best pipe for a specific environment:

1. Aesthetic standards
2. Local atmosphere corrosiveness
3. Cleaning systems
4. Budget

When it comes to stainless steel pipes, each environment has its own unique requirements. Be sure to take into account all of the factors before making a decision.

Conclusion

Overall, 201 and 304 stainless steel welded pipes offer different advantages and disadvantages depending on the application.

In conclusion, when it comes to welded pipes, 304 stainless steel offers better corrosion resistance, heat resistance, and toughness than 201 stainless steel, making it the better option for many applications.

The higher chromium and nickel content of 304 stainless steel makes it more expensive but also more resistant to corrosion and rust. Its bright and white appearance makes it more aesthetically pleasing than 201 stainless steel, which is often darker. Therefore, in terms of corrosion resistance, heat resistance, and toughness, 304 stainless steel welded pipes are the better option for many applications.

201 stainless steel is less expensive and offers a darker surface color. However, its lower rust resistance and lower toughness make it less suitable for outdoor or moist environments.

On the other hand, 304 stainless steel is more expensive and has a brighter, whiter surface color. Yet, its higher corrosion resistance and toughness make it more suitable for these types of environments.

It's important to consider all these factors before selecting a stainless steel welded pipe.

Vinmay Stainless Steel is one of the best stainless steel welded pipe manufacturers in China, our stainless steel welded are made of 304 , 201 and 316 Stainless Steel Grade. All of our pipes are produce strictly according to international standards. 99% of product export to more than 50 countries which mainly in Europe and South America.  Contact us for an order as soon as possible!

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