Carbon Steel vs Stainless Steel: What’s the Difference?
Understanding carbon steel and stainless steel is critical for engineers, architects, and manufacturers. This comprehensive guide breaks down their chemical compositions, performance characteristics, and industrial applications.
1. Chemical Composition: Core Difference- Carbon Steel vs Stainless Steel
1.1 Stainless Steel Alloy Structure
Stainless steel contains a minimum of 10.5% chromium – the element that forms a self-healing chromium oxide layer. Additional elements like nickel (8-12%) and molybdenum enhance:
– Corrosion resistance in acidic/chloride environments
– High-temperature stability (up to 870°C)
– Aesthetic surface finish
1.2 Carbon Steel Components
Carbon steel primarily consists of:
– Iron (98%) + Carbon (0.05%-2%)
– Trace amounts of manganese/silicon
The carbon content directly determines hardness:
| Taper | Teneur en carbone | Hardness (HB) |
| Low Carbon Steel | 0.05%-0.25% | 120-180 |
| Medium Carbon Steel | 0.25%-0.6% | 180-250 |
| High Carbon Steel | >0.6% | 250-400 |
2. Performance Comparison: Carbon Steel vs Stainless Steel
2.1 Corrosion Resistance
– Stainless Steel:
The chromium oxide layer provides:
– Saltwater corrosion resistance (316 grade)
– Acid resistance (904L super austenitic)
– Zero maintenance in humid environments
– Carbon Steel:
Requires protective coatings (galvanization/painting) to prevent:
– Rust formation within 48hrs in wet conditions
– Structural weakening from oxidation
2.2 Mechanical Properties
| Propriété | Acier inoxydable | Carbone |
| Résistance à la traction | 515-827 MPa | 400-550 MPa |
| Conductivité thermique | 15 W/mK | 54 W/mK |
| Magnetism | Non-magnetic* | Magnétique |
Exception: Martensitic stainless steels (e.g., 410) are magnetic
3. Cost Analysis: When to Choose Which?
3.1 Stainless Steel Applications (Premium Choice)
– Medical equipment (ASTM F138/F139)
– Marine components (ASTM A240)
– Food processing machinery (3-A Sanitary Standards)
Price Range: $2,500-$6,000/ton
3.2 Carbon Steel Uses (Cost-Effective Solution)
– Structural beams (ASTM A36)
– Automotive chassis (SAE 1018)
– Industrial tools (AISI 1045)
Price Range: $600-$1,200/ton
GengFei Steel: Your Trusted Metal Partner
As an ISO 9001:2015 certified manufacturer producing 300,000 tons annually, we supply:
– Stainless Steel: 304/316/430 grades with EN 10088-2 certification
– Carbon Steel: Hot-rolled coils, galvanized sheets (ASTM A653)
Partagez ce message
Laisser une réponse
Faites votre prochain projet!
China Steel Supplier & Manufacturer
La plus grande fabrication des métaux
Gengfei Steel est un «fournisseur d'acier» professionnel situé en Chine, nous fournissons un service d'approvisionnement en acier inoxydable, en acier au carbone, en aluminium et autres matériaux métalliques.
En tant qu'entreprise de pointe, nous nous engageons à fournir à nos clients les matières premières de la plus haute qualité soutenues par le service client et le support de première classe. Notre large gamme d'alimentation comprend toutes sortes de plaques, de tube, de tige de fil et de plaque en acier en carbone, de tube, de barre, etc. Notre équipe de professionnels expérimentés peut vous aider à choisir le matériel qui convient le mieux aux besoins de votre projet et à vous assurer que votre commande est livrée à temps. Nos clients vont des petites entreprises aux grands fabricants, et nous pouvons fournir un service et un soutien professionnels, quelle que soit la taille de vos besoins.
Commentaire (1)
Hello, I enjoy reading all of your article.
I wanted to write a little comment to support you.