Are you tired of the rising costs of stainless steel for your projects? This article explores a cost-effective alternative to Stainless Steel 304—SUS443. Learn how SUS443 offers superior corrosion resistance, better thermal conductivity, and significant savings. Dive in to find out how this innovative material can revolutionize your applications!
| Material/Thickness | SUS443/2B | SUS304/2B |
| 0.3 | 19000 | 25100 |
| 0.4 | 18500 | 23600 |
| 0.5 | 17500 | 22800 |
| 0.6 | 16800 | 22500 |
| 0.7 | 16800 | 22400 |
| 0.8 | 16600 | 22200 |
| 0.9 | 16500 | 22100 |
| 1 | 16500 | 22100 |
| 1.2 | 16300 | 21900 |
| 1.5 | 16100 | 21700 |
| 1.8 | 16100 | 21700 |
| 2 | 16000 | 21700 |
| 2.2 | 16000 | 21700 |
| 2.5 | 16000 | 1700 |
| 3 | 16000 | 21700 |
| >3.0 | 17000 | 23200 |
Unit: CNY/Ton.
304 Stainless Steel, commonly referred to as Stainless Steel 304, is one of the most widely used types of stainless steel. To maintain its inherent corrosion resistance, stainless steel must contain at least 12% chromium. In the case of 304 stainless steel, it also includes more than 8% nickel, which enhances its corrosion resistance and formability.
Stainless Steel 304 is prevalent in various applications due to its excellent properties. It is commonly found in:
The international price of nickel, a key component of Stainless Steel 304, is subject to constant fluctuations. Since nickel is a limited resource, its price volatility directly impacts the cost of 304 stainless steel. This rising trend in nickel prices has become a significant factor limiting the development and broader adoption of Stainless Steel 304.
Given the instability in the international market for stainless steel raw materials and the increasing competition, there is a growing demand to reduce material costs. End users are becoming more specific in their requirements for stainless steel materials, seeking alternatives that can offer similar or better performance at a lower cost.
To address these challenges, our company, in collaboration with Japan’s JFE and TISCO, has developed a new product: 21CT, branded as SUS443. This development aims to provide a cost-effective alternative to Stainless Steel 304 without compromising on quality.
The introduction of 21CT (SUS443) represents a significant advancement in the stainless steel industry, offering a viable alternative to Stainless Steel 304. This new material addresses the urgent need for cost reduction while maintaining high performance, making it a valuable solution in the current market landscape.
443 stainless steel, also known as 21CT, contains 21% chromium, which significantly improves its corrosion resistance. This level of chromium content provides corrosion resistance comparable to that of stainless steel 304, and its pitting resistance surpasses that of 304. This makes 21CT an excellent choice for applications requiring high resistance to corrosive environments.
The reduction of impurities such as carbon and nitrogen, coupled with the addition of elements like titanium and copper, further enhances the corrosion resistance of 21CT. Titanium stabilizes the steel, preventing the formation of chromium carbides at grain boundaries, which can lead to intergranular corrosion. Copper improves resistance to certain types of corrosion and enhances the overall durability of the material.
21CT belongs to the ferritic 400 series of stainless steels, specifically identified by the brand number SUS443. Ferritic stainless steels are known for their good mechanical properties and resistance to stress corrosion cracking. 21CT exhibits superior mechanical properties compared to SUS430, making it a robust option for various applications.
One of the significant advantages of 21CT is its cost-effectiveness. Since it does not contain nickel, its price is approximately 30% lower than that of stainless steel 304. This makes 21CT an attractive option for projects where budget constraints are a consideration, without compromising on performance.
21CT offers about 30% higher thermal conductivity compared to stainless steel 304. This characteristic, along with its good magnetic conductivity, makes it particularly advantageous for applications in cooking products and other scenarios where efficient heat transfer is essential.
Due to the inherent characteristics of ferritic stainless steel, components made from 21CT that undergo deep processing are less likely to experience delayed fracture caused by the release of internal stress. As a result, annealing treatment is generally not required, which effectively reduces processing costs and simplifies manufacturing processes.
In summary, 443 stainless steel (21CT) combines excellent corrosion resistance, superior mechanical properties, cost-effectiveness, and enhanced thermal conductivity, making it a highly versatile and valuable material for a wide range of industrial applications.
Stainless Steel 443, also known as 21CT, is a ferritic stainless steel that offers excellent corrosion resistance, good formability, and high-temperature strength. Its unique properties make it suitable for a wide range of applications across various industries. Below is an overview of its primary application fields:
Stainless Steel 443 is widely used in the kitchenware industry due to its corrosion resistance and ease of cleaning. Common applications include:
The appliance industry benefits from the durability and aesthetic appeal of Stainless Steel 443. Common applications include:
In the transportation sector, Stainless Steel 443 is valued for its strength and resistance to corrosion. Common applications include:
The construction industry utilizes Stainless Steel 443 for its durability and aesthetic appeal. Common applications include:
Stainless Steel 443 is also used in various other applications due to its unique properties. Common applications include:
In our company, Stainless Steel 443 materials, primarily in the form of stainless steel plates, are mainly used in the following industries:
Stainless Steel 443 continues to be a versatile and valuable material across multiple industries, providing a combination of durability, corrosion resistance, and aesthetic appeal.
| Steel Type | 21CT | SUS304 |
| Chromium | 21 | 18.2 |
| Nickel | – | 8.1 |
| Molybdenum | – | – |
| Titanium | 0.3 | – |
| Carbon | 0.008 | 0.06 |
| Nitrogen | 0.01 | 0.04 |
| Copper | 0.43 | – |
*21CT increases the chromium content to 21%, thus providing better corrosion resistance, and additionally includes titanium and copper elements.
*Titanium can enhance the resistance to intergranular corrosion and improve weldability.
*Copper can improve resistance to acidic substances.
| Steel Type | 21CT | SUS304 |
| Density（g/cm3） | 7.74 | 7.93 |
| Density（10-6Ω·cm） | 58 | 70 |
| Magnetism | Yes | No |
| Specific Heat 25℃（J/kg·℃） | 440 | 500 |
| Thermal Conductivity 100℃（W/m·℃） | 22.5 | 16.2 |
| Thermal Expansion Rate 20-100℃（10-6/℃） | 10.5 | 17.3 |
| Young’s Modulus （Gpa） | 204 | 193 |
Compared to 304, 21CT has: Lower density, allowing for an approximately 2.5% increase in material area for the same weight, better thermal conductivity, less thermal expansion, magnetism, and excellent properties suitable for use with induction cookers.
| Steel Type | SUS443 | SUS304 |
| Yield Strength (MPa) | 305 | 260 |
| Tensile Strength (MPa) | 483 | 645 |
| Extension Rate (%) | 31 | 60 |
| Average R Value | 1.3 | 1 |
| Hardness (Hv) | 161 | 185 |
| Cone Cup Protrusion (mm) | 38.6 | 37.7 |
| Bendability (Bend Angle 180°) | Good（R=0T） | Good（R=0T） |
The R value is an indicator of the deep drawing performance of the material. The higher the R value, the better the deep drawing performance!
Test result graph for boiling 2 liters of water.
Conclusion: When heating with gas or an induction stove, the thermal conductivity of 443 is superior to that of stainless steel 304!
| Combination | TIG Welding | MIG Welding | Arc Welding |
| Welding of the same type: 21CT and 21CT | □ | □ | □ |
| Welding of different types: 21CT and SUS304 | ■ | □ | □ |
Note: For more detailed welding technical data and welding skills, you can contact our company to obtain them.
| Steel Type | Cyclic Corrosion Testing | Salt Spray Test (NSS) | Exposure Test | Corrosion of Welded Parts | |
| SUS443 |  |  |  |  |  |
| SUS304 |  |  |  |  |  |
Methods to test corrosion resistance:
1. Surface #600 polished stainless steel plate, saltwater spray (5% NaCl, 35℃, 2hr) → dry (60℃, 4hr) → moisten (40℃, 2hr), repeat 30 times.
2. Surface #600 polished stainless steel plate, neutral saltwater spray (5% NaCl, 35℃), 1000 hours.
3. Surface #600 polished stainless steel plate, exposed for 9 months in Chiba Prefecture, Japan, 10 meters from the shore, with sea salt adsorption quantity of 0.25mg.dm-2.day-1.
4. TIG welding, plate thickness is 0.8mm, contact start arc welding, using argon gas for protection, and polished with surface #600 after welding.
Comparison of Stress Corrosion Cracking Tests:
| Steel Type | 304 Stainless Steel | 443 Stainless Steel |
| Presence or Absence of a Break | Breakage occurs within ≤15 hours. | No breakage after 100h test |
| Appearance After Testing |  |  |
Condition: 42% MgCl2U, JIS G 0576 shape bending
Conclusion: 304 stainless steel may undergo stress corrosion cracking, but 443 stainless steel is not at risk of this occurrence.
| EU ROHS Certification | Compliant with the European Union’s environmental protection standards (SGS certified) |
| International Health Certification | Conforms to the requirements of GB-9684-1988 “Hygienic Standard for Stainless Steel Food Utensils and Containers” |
| Germany LFGB Certification | Complies with German food and commodity laws, and meets the requirements for metal release from stainless steel tableware |
| US FDA Certification | Meets the food safety regulatory standards of the United States, and the requirements for metal release from stainless steel tableware |
Budget-conscious buyers prioritize balancing price and value in their purchases. When selecting stainless steel for various applications, particularly in contexts like kitchen appliances, outdoor grills, and architectural elements, stainless steel grade 443 offers an attractive alternative to the more expensive 304 grade. Here’s how budget-conscious buyers can benefit from choosing stainless steel 443.
Stainless steel 443, which contains 21% chromium and no nickel, is considerably more cost-effective than 304 stainless steel. For instance, while 304 stainless steel may cost around $2.50 per pound, 443 stainless steel can be approximately 20-30% cheaper due to the absence of nickel, a costly element. This reduction in price provides significant savings without sacrificing essential properties such as corrosion resistance, making 443 a valuable choice for those needing durable stainless steel on a budget.
The affordability of stainless steel 443 is matched by its availability and ease of use. Due to its widespread use in various industries, consumers can easily find and purchase this material. The ferritic nature of 443 stainless steel, meaning it is iron-based with high chromium content, allows for easy processing and fabrication. This efficiency in manufacturing and installation further reduces costs, translating into savings for the end user.
Retailers and manufacturers often offer promotions, discounts, and deals on materials like stainless steel 443. By taking advantage of these offers, consumers can obtain high-quality stainless steel at even lower prices. Promotions and personalized deals enhance the appeal of 443 for those looking to maximize their budget.
Despite being more affordable, stainless steel 443 does not compromise on quality. Its high chromium content, which is responsible for its excellent corrosion resistance, makes it suitable for applications in high-humidity or coastal areas where corrosion resistance is critical. The durability and long-term performance of 443 stainless steel ensure that buyers get a material that will last, providing long-term value and reducing the need for frequent replacements or maintenance.
Stainless steel 443 is relatively easy to maintain and clean, saving time and effort in the long run. Its resistance to corrosion and staining means that it requires less frequent upkeep compared to other materials. This convenience is particularly valuable in applications such as kitchen appliances and outdoor grills, where ease of maintenance is a significant consideration.
Manufacturers and retailers can leverage data-driven approaches to better cater to budget-conscious buyers. By analyzing purchasing patterns and trends, they can offer targeted promotions and discounts on stainless steel 443, ensuring that consumers find the best deals. Understanding the needs and preferences of budget-conscious buyers through data analytics helps build brand loyalty and ensures that consumers feel valued and understood.
Many budget-conscious shoppers prepare for their purchases by researching product prices, sales promotions, and product quality. Providing comprehensive information about the benefits and cost-effectiveness of stainless steel 443 can help these buyers make informed decisions. Tools such as online calculators for estimating costs, detailed product descriptions, and customer reviews can assist buyers in evaluating the value of 443 stainless steel for their specific needs.
When budget-conscious shoppers visit stores, they are often open to discovering new items that offer good value. In-store displays, advertisements, and coupons highlighting the benefits and affordability of stainless steel 443 can encourage these buyers to consider it as a viable option. Effective merchandising strategies can help showcase the cost savings and quality benefits of 443 stainless steel.
Given the current economic climate, consumers are increasingly vigilant about their spending. Stainless steel 443, with its lower cost and high performance, aligns well with the needs of budget-conscious buyers. By offering discounts, coupons, and flexible payment options, retailers can make 443 stainless steel even more accessible to those looking to manage their expenses without compromising on quality.
Loyalty programs can be particularly effective in attracting and retaining budget-conscious buyers. By joining these programs, consumers can enjoy ongoing discounts, special offers, and other benefits that make purchasing stainless steel 443 even more cost-effective. These programs help build long-term relationships with customers, ensuring they return for future purchases and continue to benefit from the value offered by 443 stainless steel.
Including customer testimonials or case studies can demonstrate the cost savings and satisfaction experienced by those who have chosen stainless steel 443. For example, a homeowner might share how choosing 443 stainless steel for their kitchen renovation saved them 25% compared to using 304 stainless steel while still achieving the desired durability and aesthetic.
For budget-conscious buyers seeking the best deals on stainless steel 443, consider exploring both local retailers and online platforms known for competitive prices. Websites that offer bulk purchasing options or seasonal sales can provide additional savings. Additionally, subscribing to newsletters from reputable suppliers can keep you informed about upcoming promotions and discounts.
Have you considered how choosing 443 stainless steel could save you money on your next kitchen renovation or outdoor project? By understanding the benefits and taking advantage of available resources, budget-conscious buyers can make informed decisions that provide both quality and savings.
Living in high-humidity or coastal areas, such as those along the Gulf Coast of Texas, presents unique challenges and considerations for material selection. The combination of high humidity, saltwater exposure, and warm temperatures can significantly impact the durability and performance of materials. Stainless steel grades 443 and 304 both offer advantages in these environments, but certain properties may make one more suitable than the other depending on specific conditions and requirements.
304 stainless steel is renowned for its excellent corrosion resistance, which is crucial in high-humidity and coastal areas where materials are constantly exposed to moisture and salt. The presence of 18% chromium and 8% nickel in its composition allows 304 stainless steel to form a robust protective layer that prevents rust and corrosion. This makes it an ideal choice for applications such as outdoor furniture, marine equipment, and kitchen appliances where long-term exposure to harsh environmental conditions is expected. For instance, studies have shown that 304 stainless steel can withstand up to 1000 hours of salt spray testing without significant corrosion.
443 stainless steel, with its 21% chromium content and added titanium, also provides significant corrosion resistance. Although it lacks nickel, which contributes to the higher cost of 304 stainless steel, the high chromium content ensures the formation of a protective oxide layer. The addition of titanium enhances the material’s resistance to intergranular corrosion, which occurs at grain boundaries and can lead to material failure. 443 stainless steel is a cost-effective alternative for coastal applications, making it suitable for use in automotive exhaust systems, architectural elements, and other outdoor applications where cost savings are a priority without compromising on corrosion resistance.
High humidity and coastal conditions can pose health risks and environmental challenges. For example, high humidity impairs the body’s ability to cool itself through sweat evaporation, increasing the risk of heat-related illnesses such as heatstroke and dehydration. Additionally, high moisture levels can lead to the growth of mold, which can be harmful to both health and property. In such environments, selecting materials that minimize maintenance and prevent mold growth is essential.
Stainless steel grades 443 and 304 are both resistant to mold growth due to their smooth, non-porous surfaces, which do not provide a conducive environment for mold spores to settle and proliferate. This makes them ideal for applications in high-humidity areas where hygiene and ease of cleaning are critical, such as in kitchen appliances, bathrooms, and public facilities.
High humidity can cause moisture to condense on electronic components, leading to malfunctions and power losses. Using stainless steel enclosures made from grades 443 or 304 can help protect sensitive electronics from moisture ingress. The corrosion resistance of these materials ensures that the enclosures remain intact and effective over time, safeguarding the functionality of the electronics housed within.
Urbanization in coastal areas like Houston, Dallas, and Austin exacerbates heat and humidity issues by creating urban heat islands, where temperatures can be several degrees higher than in surrounding rural areas. Stainless steel’s reflective surface properties can help mitigate some of the heat absorption, making it a suitable material for urban infrastructure and architectural applications.
The increasing temperatures and humidity levels due to climate change further stress the importance of selecting materials that can withstand these conditions. The durability and corrosion resistance of stainless steel grades 443 and 304 make them suitable choices for long-term use in evolving climatic conditions. As the frequency and intensity of heatwaves and high humidity events increase, these materials provide reliable performance and longevity.
Access to air conditioning and cooling centers is vital for mitigating the effects of high heat and humidity. Stainless steel grades 443 and 304 are commonly used in HVAC systems due to their corrosion resistance and thermal conductivity. These properties ensure efficient heat exchange and long-lasting performance in air conditioning units, helping maintain comfortable indoor environments.
Using dehumidifiers can help reduce indoor humidity levels, making living conditions more comfortable and reducing the risk of mold growth. Stainless steel components in dehumidifiers, particularly those made from grades 443 and 304, ensure the durability and efficiency of these devices in high-humidity environments. The corrosion resistance of these materials prevents degradation and maintains the functionality of dehumidifiers over time.
In summary, both stainless steel grades 443 and 304 offer valuable properties for users in high-humidity or coastal areas. While 304 provides superior corrosion resistance and is non-magnetic, 443 offers a more cost-effective solution with comparable performance in many applications. The choice between these grades depends on specific requirements, such as budget constraints, the need for non-magnetic properties, and the severity of environmental conditions.
Below are answers to some frequently asked questions:
The main difference between stainless steel grades 443 and 304 lies in their composition, properties, and applications.
304 stainless steel is an austenitic stainless steel containing at least 18% chromium, 8% nickel, and a maximum of 0.08% carbon. It is known for its excellent corrosion resistance and durability, making it non-magnetic, smooth, and sleek. This grade is widely used in environments requiring high corrosion resistance, such as food processing, medical equipment, and chemical equipment.
On the other hand, 443 stainless steel is a ferritic stainless steel that includes 21% chromium, titanium, and very low carbon content. It is magnetic and does not contain nickel or molybdenum, which contributes to its cost-effectiveness. Despite slightly inferior corrosion resistance in strong acid and alkali environments compared to 304, it still offers good resistance, particularly against moisture and salt. This makes it suitable for applications like kitchen equipment and outdoor use.
In terms of strength and hardness, 443 stainless steel has higher strength and hardness compared to 304, making it more suitable for manufacturing parts that require high strength. However, 304 stainless steel has better toughness and plasticity, ideal for parts that need to withstand greater impact.
Cost-wise, 304 stainless steel is more expensive due to the presence of nickel, making it suitable for high-performance applications where cost is less of a concern. Conversely, 443 stainless steel is cheaper and less affected by price fluctuations of nickel and molybdenum, making it advantageous for cost-sensitive applications.
Regarding thermal expansion, 304 stainless steel has a higher thermal expansion, which can lead to more stress and warping when exposed to heat. 443 stainless steel expands less with heat, reducing the risk of warping, although it can be more challenging to polish due to its rougher surface after processing.
In summary, while both grades offer good corrosion resistance, 304 stainless steel is generally more durable and resistant to a broader range of environments, but it is more expensive. 443 stainless steel is a cost-effective alternative with higher strength and hardness, suitable for applications where nickel is not necessary.
When comparing the corrosion resistance of 443 stainless steel and 304 stainless steel, both grades exhibit strong capabilities. 443 stainless steel, a ferritic type, contains 21% chromium and titanium, which provides significant resistance to corrosion, particularly against moisture and salt. Despite lacking nickel and molybdenum, its high chromium content ensures excellent stability and resistance to external elements.
On the other hand, 304 stainless steel, an austenitic type, comprises 18% chromium, 8-10% nickel, and a small amount of carbon. This composition also offers excellent corrosion resistance and durability.
Given these characteristics, both 443 and 304 stainless steels are highly effective in resisting corrosion. However, the specific properties of 443 stainless steel, such as its resistance to humidity and salt without relying on nickel or molybdenum, make it at least as corrosion-resistant as 304 stainless steel, if not slightly more resistant in certain conditions. Therefore, 443 stainless steel can be considered as having comparable or potentially superior corrosion resistance to 304 stainless steel.
Yes, stainless steel grade 443 is magnetic. This is due to its high iron content and the presence of a ferritic crystal structure. Unlike austenitic stainless steels such as grades 304 and 316, which are generally non-magnetic, the ferritic structure of grade 443, combined with its high levels of chromium and titanium, contributes to its magnetic properties while also providing good corrosion resistance.
Stainless steel 304 is more expensive than 443 stainless steel due to several key factors:
Firstly, the chemical composition of 304 stainless steel includes between 8-10.5% nickel, which is a costly element. Nickel significantly enhances the corrosion resistance and processing properties of the steel. In contrast, 443 stainless steel does not contain nickel, making it less expensive. Instead, it relies on a higher chromium content and the addition of titanium for corrosion resistance.
Secondly, the presence of nickel in 304 stainless steel improves its corrosion resistance, especially in environments with strong acids and alkalis. While 443 stainless steel also offers good corrosion resistance, it is slightly inferior to 304 in more demanding conditions.
Additionally, nickel in 304 stainless steel enhances its ease of processing, drawing, and fabrication. It increases the toughness and plasticity of the steel, reducing the likelihood of cracking during manufacturing. Conversely, 443 stainless steel, which lacks nickel, may be more prone to cracking and requires specific adjustments in production processes.
Lastly, the cost of 443 stainless steel is less sensitive to global market fluctuations since it does not contain expensive elements like nickel and molybdenum. This makes it more suitable for cost-sensitive applications, although it does not match the performance level of 304 stainless steel.
In summary, the higher cost of 304 stainless steel is primarily due to its nickel content, which enhances its corrosion resistance, processing performance, and overall durability, making it more suitable for demanding applications.
Yes, stainless steel 443 can be used for high-end applications. It offers excellent corrosion resistance comparable to 304 stainless steel, making it suitable for various uses where durability and longevity are crucial. Its high chromium content and lack of nickel make it a cost-effective alternative to 304 stainless steel. Additionally, 443 stainless steel has better thermal conductivity and less thermal expansion than 304, which is beneficial for applications such as cookware and kitchen utensils, reducing stress and warping under heat.
The magnetic properties of 443 stainless steel can be advantageous in specific applications like induction heating and household electrical appliances. Although it has lower tensile strength than 304 stainless steel, which can lead to potential cracking at sharp corners, this can be managed through proper production and polishing techniques. The surface finish of 443 stainless steel can be polished to a high standard, making it suitable for high-end applications.
443 stainless steel is increasingly used in kitchenware, electrical appliances, building materials, and industrial machines due to its favorable properties. Its combination of cost-effectiveness, performance, and quality makes it a strong candidate for replacing 304 stainless steel in many high-end applications.
As the founder of MachineMFG, I have dedicated over a decade of my career to the metalworking industry. My extensive experience has allowed me to become an expert in the fields of sheet metal fabrication, machining, mechanical engineering, and machine tools for metals. I am constantly thinking, reading, and writing about these subjects, constantly striving to stay at the forefront of my field. Let my knowledge and expertise be an asset to your business.
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