Why Are Stainless Steels Different from Carbon Steels?

Just because two things are made of steel doesn’t necessarily mean they feature the same kind of steel. There are numerous kinds of steel, including stainless and carbon steel. To know more about stainless and carbon steel, build a connection with experts at High-Speed Steel Punjab. While both types may look the same, some critical nuances distinguish one.

Stainless steel

Stainless steel, also known as inox steel (from the French word inoxydable, which means “inoxidizable”), lives true to its name by having excellent resistance to rust-related discoloration. Oxidation, a chemical process that alters the characteristics of iron-based metals like steel, occurs when exposed to oxygen. Rugged iron oxidizes and transforms into reddish-brown metal (iron oxide). The iron oxide will eventually degrade as a result of oxidation. 

Stainless steel defends against oxidization. It features the lowest chromium content of 10.5% by mass. This is necessary because chromium, unlike iron, isn’t easy to oxidation. Stainless steel can reveal the presence of chromium without rusting or corroding. A protective chromium layer protects stainless steel from corrosion by creating a barrier between the metal’s iron content and environmental oxygen.

Carbon steel

On the other hand, carbon steel is represented by a high carbon content, generally up to 2.1% of its weight. According to the American Iron and Steel Institute (ASISI), carbon steel must meet the following requirements.

• Chromium, titanium, tungsten, cobalt, nickel, vanadium, and other corrosion-resistant metals do not require a minimum amount.
• The minimum copper content must not exceed 0.40%.
• Manganese content must not exceed 1.65%.
• Copper content must not exceed 0.6%
• Silicon content must not exceed 0.6%

So, what benefits does carbon steel provide? The use of high carbon content varies in steel components. More specifically, it evolves more robust and complex. High-carbon steel makes many swords, knives, and other bladed weapons. Swordsmiths in feudal Japan invented the high-carbon steel known as tamahagane for the katana.

Does carbon steel rust? Yes, carbon steel rusts because it lacks stainless steel’s corrosion-resistant properties. Although more robust and durable than stainless steel, carbon steel may rust and corrode when revealed to moisture. Even small amounts of water, including water vapour in the air, can rust carbon steel. Furthermore, carbon steel is less flexible than stainless steel.

How Do Stainless Steel and Carbon Steel Differ?

• Stainless steel has a high chromium content, which protects against corrosion and rust.
• Carbon steel is high in carbon that corrodes and rusts quickly when exposed to moisture when exposed to humidity, corrodes and deteriorates quickly.
• A decorative item made of stainless steel is more appealing to the eye.
• Carbon steel is more robust and more resistant to corrosion than stainless steel.

Should I choose Carbon Steel or Stainless Steel?

Carbon and stainless steel are different, but that doesn’t mean one is better. It depends on what is taking place. Each material has its pros and cons. The key is to find suitable steel for the job.

High carbon steel

• Vulnerable to rust
• Brittle
• Wear-resistant

Stainless steel

• Resistant to rust
• Less brittle
• Less wear-resistant

Looking for the Best Steel distributor Company in Ludhiana? BK Steel Company is the right place for you. if you want to know more about carbon steel or stainless steel or a quote for a custom project.