Stainless steel and carbon steel are the two most common types of steel that are used in the manufacture of various products. Stainless steel is unique in the sense that it never rusts. The stainless steel bars suppliers manufacture steel rods for shipbuilding, automotive, and heavy earth moving equipment.
Carbon steel has a characteristic matte finish, a higher tensile strength, and is harder than stainless steel. The material is especially used for sharp objects such as knives, and other bladed instruments that need to maintain sharpness for a longer period. However, carbon steel does tend to rust when exposed to moisture.
The Characteristics of Stainless steel
Since stainless steel does not oxidize or rust under moisture, it serves a great purpose in chemical and food plants. This type of steel comprises elements such as iron, carbon, and 10.5% chromium at the least.
The stainless steel bar suppliers ensure that the chromium content is just right since the element reacts with oxygen to create a passive layer that protects the material from corrosion. The rust-proof nature of stainless steel is very important for use in outdoor furnishings such as bollards that are installed in humid environments.
One must pay special attention to the stainless steel grade and while purchasing appliances and other expensive items since the chromium content varies between the steel of each grade.
For example, stainless steel with 10.5% chromium content is relatively cheaper and less durable than steel with 16% chromium. This difference will contribute to the shelf life and maintenance cost of the appliance significantly.
The Characteristics of Carbon steel
The main elements of carbon steel include iron and 0.12% to 2% carbon. Carbon steel tends to show a significant change in characteristics even within the confines of 2% carbon. The major difference lies in the level of hardness.
The carbon steel used in knives and other sharp instruments is usually of high carbon content. Since high carbon steel is very hard, it is great at resisting abrasion and retaining shape. So, high carbon steel can be subjected to great force before cracking as such steel is brittle.
Will you Pick Stainless Steel or Carbon Steel?
Your choice will greatly depend upon your needs and usage. Since stainless and carbon steel have separate characteristics, they fulfill different criteria.
Features of Stainless Steel:
- The stainless steel bar suppliers ensure that the steel is rust-proof.
- Not brittle
- Requires very little maintenance.
Features of Carbon Steel:
- Not rust-proof
- Brittle
- Extremely sharp-edged
- Extremely tough and wear-resistant
The stainless steel bar suppliers and fasteners manufacturers in india are in great demand in the kitchen and food industry as home chefs prefer stainless steel knives. It is because stainless steel knives are readily available and are much easier to maintain and store.
Professional chefs often prefer high–carbon steel knives as these are extremely sharp and do not need much maintenance or sharpening. They can withstand tough, regular use and still maintain their edge. They will not bend under significant force but break above a certain point of pressure.
So, choose the type of steel based on your needs and enjoy a sharp future.
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