Master Guide to Stainless Steel and Carbon Steel

Metals play a critical role in many industries and applications, from constructing towering skyscrapers to producing medical implants. They form an essential foundation for nearly every sector, and among the most versatile ones are stainless and carbon steel. Each has distinct properties that render them indispensable for manufacturing high-performance components.

Bergsen Metals has been a trusted provider of premium steel products and services for over four decades! This earned us a reputation for reliability and excellence in the industry. Our commitment to meeting the diverse needs of customers across different sectors is also evident in our ISO 9001 certification. Further, we offer competitive rates and prompt delivery for all metal requirements.

Stainless steel is an alloy comprising iron, carbon, and at least 10.5% chromium by weight. Incorporating other metals — such as nickel, molybdenum, or titanium — into this composition can substantially augment the material’s properties.

Nickel increases the metal’s ductility and toughness, allowing easy shaping and forming without sacrificing strength. On the other hand, molybdenum enhances the metal’s strength and heat resistance, while titanium improves its tolerance to crevice and pitting corrosion. Furthermore, copper is frequently added to boost the resistance to sulfuric acid, and nitrogen helps enhance its mechanical strength.

Adding chromium improves the material’s corrosion resistance and enhances its ability to withstand high temperatures. Manganese is added to improve the metal’s toughness, while silicon improves its oxidation resistance. Additionally, the addition of molybdenum can enhance the material’s corrosion resistance and improve its strength at high temperatures.

Stainless steel’s distinctive properties have made it popular in many industries. Here are the key benefits of using this metal:

Stainless steel is a highly versatile material with several grades and forms. Below are some of the frequently used types in various industrial applications:

Carbon steel is a steel alloy rich in carbon compared to other types. It usually has a carbon content ranging from 0.05% to 2% by weight, with certain specialized grades having even higher concentrations. This elevated carbon content level gives carbon steel its unique properties of toughness and strength.

It is frequently utilized to manufacture components subjected to high-stress levels, such as machine parts, tools, and structural components. It is also a cost-effective option for many applications, as it is a relatively inexpensive material. However, carbon steel is less corrosion-resistant and may require additional protective coatings or treatments to prevent rust and degradation over time.

Carbon steel is commonly used in various industries due to its numerous advantages. Here are three of its most prominent benefits:

Carbon steel is available in various types and grades, each with unique properties that make it suitable for specific applications. Below are some of its most common types: