December 20, 2022
As two commonly used metals, stainless steel and carbon steel offer you versatile options for a wide range of construction and industrial purposes. Understanding the characteristics of each metal type as well as the differences and functionalities can help you decide which metal type is best for your project requirements.
Stainless Steel Characteristics
With at least 10% chromium, stainless steel has a base made of carbon steel and iron. Additional alloying elements can be added in different stainless steel grades. With the addition of chromium, stainless steel is a corrosion resistant metal type with exceptional tensile strength.
Stainless steel products are readily available in a wide range of sizes, finishes and alloys. Common stainless steel metal shapes include:
1:Stainless Steel Bar 2:Stainless Steel Sheet & Plate 3:Stainless Steel Tube 4:Stainless Steel Pipe 5:Stainless Steel Angle
Is Carbon Steel or Stainless Steel Stronger?
With the inclusion of carbon properties, carbon steel is stronger than stainless steel. Carbon steel is also harder and more durable than stainless steel. The downfall of steel is that it oxidizes when exposed to moisture which make it prone to rust. Stainless steel is corrosion resistant, with better ductility than carbon steel.