Stainless steel is a widely popular and versatile metal because of its exceptional properties, including high strength, durability, and resistance to corrosion and rust. These properties make it a popular choice for a range of applications, including kitchen equipment, medical devices, and even construction materials. With so many grades of stainless steel available, it can be hard to determine which one is the best for your project. In this blog, we will delve into the most frequently used stainless steel plate grades.
304 Stainless Steel Plate
304 stainless steel is the most commonly used stainless steel alloy due to its excellent properties and versatility. Its high chromium and nickel content make it highly resistant to corrosion and staining, and it is commonly used in food and beverage processing equipment, as well as in the architecture and construction industries. 304 stainless steel is easy to weld and form, making it ideal for a range of custom projects.
304L Stainless Steel Plate
When even more corrosion protection is required, 304L stainless steel is the preferred alloy. It is nearly identical to the 304 grade, but with less carbon content, making it less susceptible to sensitization (which can lead to corrosion) during welding. 304L stainless steel is used in a wide range of applications, including petrochemical, pharmaceutical, and medical equipment.
316L Stainless Steel Plate
If you need a stainless steel grade with even higher corrosion resistance, then 316L stainless steel is your best option. It contains molybdenum, which increases its corrosion resistance and makes it more suitable for environments with high chloride levels. 316L stainless steel is commonly used in marine applications, medical implants, and chemical processing equipment.
Duplex Stainless Steel Plate
Duplex stainless steel is a two-phase alloy that combines the properties of austenitic and ferritic stainless steels. It offers excellent strength and corrosion resistance, making it ideal for use in harsh environments. Duplex stainless steel is commonly used in chemical and petrochemical processing, marine and offshore environments, and oil and gas applications.
High Nickel Grades
High nickel stainless steel grades are known for their exceptional properties, including resistance to high temperatures and corrosion. These grades include 6% Molybdenum austenitic stainless steels, nickel-chromium-molybdenum alloys, and nickel-copper alloys. These alloys are commonly used in chemical processing, heat exchangers, and in the pulp and paper industry.
In conclusion, the selection of the right stainless steel plate grade for your application demands consideration of the environment in which it is going to be used, the mechanical properties required, and the level of corrosion resistance that is needed. At Action Stainless & Alloys, we offer an array of stainless steel plate grades, including nickel plate stainless steel grades, to meet a diverse range of applications. Contact us today to learn more about our offerings or to request a quote.