What to choose between carbon steel and stainless steel? It is a question that comes to the mind of many engineers, architects, construction workers, and plumbers. Stainless steel and carbon steel both are utilized for a variety of applications. It may be hard to choose which one is right for your project or area of application. To determine which material suits your needs in the best possible way, it is imperative to understand the basics related to what is stainless steel and carbon steel and what are their uses. Everyone is aware that steel is a metal and it has many uses. Steel is a material that is found in almost every area in our fabricated world. Even if you see steel everywhere around you or even if you work with steel, there are chances that you might know what exactly steel is and what it is made of? What makes steel different from all other metals? Let us understand the basics.
What is Steel?
Steel is a material and a type of metal that is referred to as an alloy. An alloy is a combination of two or more natural metals that are melded together to make new and unique metal. Steel is a kind of metal alloy that is a mixture of iron and at least one other metal. There are many types of steel that have a mixture of numerous metals, though the concentration may differ.
What is Carbon Steel?
Carbon steel refers to basic steel which comprises a mixture of iron and carbon. Carbon steel may contain other substances as well that too in unmeasured amounts. Classification of carbon steel is done according to the content of carbon that is mixed in iron. When we talk about low-to-mid carbon steel. It comprises less than 0.3% carbon. High carbon steel on the other hand contains up to 2% carbon.
What is Stainless Steel?
Stainless steel is an alloy that is manufactured by adding chromium. While carbon steel possesses only 2% carbon, stainless steel on the other hand possesses at least 10% chromium. The most significant and imperative feature of stainless steel is that it has anti-resistant properties. The material does not corrode in an easier manner. Carbon steel is mostly made up of iron and iron is known to corrode very easily.
What to Consider While Choosing Steel Pipes?
If you are someone who is trying to choose between stainless steel and carbon steel, the following factors need to be considered:1. Temperature
Your pipes might get exposed to extreme and harsh temperatures. Stainless steel pipes & SS pipe fittings are known for having the ability to withstand extremely harsh environments and temperature conditions.
2. Appearance
If you think your pipes will be visible then you need to give a lot of importance to appearance. Stainless steel is a material that has a lot of shine and finishes. Stainless steel has the ability to hold its shine even if exposed to harsh weather and other elements. Carbon steel on the other hand starts to corrode if exposed to harsh weather and temperature.
3. Substance
What is exactly going on in your pipes? This is the first and foremost factor to consider while choosing the right metal. You need to see whether the metal is carrying something corrosive like saltwater or chemicals. Choosing stainless steel is the right option as it possesses all the right properties that make the material a perfect choice for your application.
Rhinox: Your Stainless Steel Solution
Consider all the above-mentioned properties while choosing the right material for your area of application. Stainless steel has all the properties that make it the right choice for your application, especially plumbing.
