Steel and stainless steel are two of the most common metals worldwide. They have many similarities, but there are also several key differences. It is essential to understand the difference between steel and stainless steel to choose the best metal for your project in Oviedo.
What is Steel?
Steel is an alloy of iron and carbon. Depending on the carbon content, steel change in properties.
For example, mild steel has a low carbon content and is soft and malleable. Medium-carbon steel has a higher carbon content and is stronger than mild steel. High-carbon steel is even stronger than medium-carbon steel but is also more brittle.
Steel metal may also have other characteristics depending on different elements and impurities present. Common elements in steel include manganese, chromium, vanadium, tungsten, sulfur, and phosphorous. These elements can influence the steel’s hardness, strength, corrosion resistance, and weldability.
Usually, steel comes in a dark grey or black color. It is ideal for various products, including cars, aircraft, tools, and machinery.
Additionally, steel has a grading system that helps classify it into different types based on its properties. Examples of steel include:
- Allow steels
- Carbon steels
- Tool steel
- Stainless steel
What is Stainless Steel?
Stainless steel is an alloy of iron, chromium, and other metals. As the name suggests, it is resistant to rust and staining. Unlike ordinary steel, this one has at least 30% chromium, which forms an invisible protective layer.
Stainless steel may also contain other elements like titanium, copper, and molybdenum. They further improve this metal’s corrosion resistance, making it more desirable for different industrial usages such as making food & beverage containers and health care products.
Stainless steel is also heat resistant and more attractive than ordinary steel. That makes it an excellent material for making kitchen appliances in Oviedo.
Like steel, stainless steel has different grades, classified according to its properties. Examples of stainless steel include:
- Austenitic stainless steels
- Martensitic stainless steels
- Duplex stainless steels
- Ferritic stainless steels
Steel v.s Stainless Steel
Conclusion
Steel and Stainless steel are excellent materials with a wide range of applications. When choosing the best metal for your project, consider the necessary properties, such as strength, durability, and appearance. Remember that stainless steel is more expensive than steel but doesn’t rust and has a more attractive finish.
If you’re a resident or business in Oviedo, Orlando, Cocoa Beach, Central Florida, Maitland, or Daytona Beach, make sure to contact us for a free quote today.
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