Grades 304 and 202 stainless steel both belong to the austenitic group. In other words, both stainless steel alloys have face-centered cubic microstructures. Due to the addition of nickel to grade 304, this alloy inherits its austenitic structure from the 300 series stainless steel. Meanwhile, grade 202 is part of the 200 series. In 200 series stainless steel grades, manganese and nitrogen are used instead of nickel in their chemistry as effective alternatives. As a result, it is interesting to note that their alloys still contain a small amount of nickel.
Identifying ss 304 and ss 202
MTRs, or certified Material test reports, are the most effective way to determine two different steel grades. Besides getting a more straightforward understanding of the chemical composition, it is also possible to obtain detailed reports on both their mechanical and physical properties. Nevertheless, if you want to gauge the difference between products on the market, try a small test. It is possible to distinguish between the two grades with a spark test, although it is inconclusive. In grade 304, sparks do not fly when a grinder is run over it; they appear reddish-orange in color and thin. For grade 202, the grinder test produces thicker, yellow sparks that fly far. To identify their products, manufacturers mark the ASTM number on their products, for example, ASTM A312 TP304 or ASTM A312 TP316L.
Uses and applications of stainless steel 304 and 202
There are a variety of uses for grade 304 stainless steel, including kitchen benches, sinks, troughs, equipment, and appliances, as well as food processing equipment, particularly for beer brewing, milk processing, and winemaking. Due to its strength and toughness, this alloy grade is also suitable for weaving or welding screens for springs, mining, heat exchangers, quarrying, water filtration, architectural panels, railings, and trim, chemical containers, including for transport, as well as threaded fasteners. Alternatively, grade 202 is suitable for sinks and cookery appliances, hose clamps, restaurant equipment, trim for automobiles, bogeys, trailers, and architectural treatments, such as windows and doors.
Weldability of SS 304 and SS 202
It is possible to weld grade SS 202 using conventional fusion techniques, as with many austenitic alloys. It is also possible to weld the alloy using resistance methods. Oxyacetylene welding is not suitable for joining this grade. Nevertheless, it is prone to intergranular corrosion due to its high carbon content. A similar issue affects grade 304, which contains a higher percentage of carbon. However, lowering the carbon content of grade SS 304 can easily fix this problem. It is possible to get a dual certification, even though the grade would become grade 304L. As a result, the new grade is 304/304L, which is weldable using any traditional welding process. SS 304 welded pipe manufacturers in India use straight argon as a gas tungsten arc (TIG) welding procedure.
There is a price difference between stainless steel 304 and 202
Stainless steel alloys differ in cost based on the elements they contain. There is almost two times more nickel in this grade than in grade 202. Nickel is a volatile commodity. The fluctuating prices of this element make alloys containing it more expensive. As a result, austenitic stainless steel alloy 304 costs more to manufacture than grade 202.
Which is better for a kitchen, stainless steel 202 or stainless steel 304?
Grade 202 has lower corrosion resistance but is very economical. In general, grade 202 stainless steel is better suited for kitchen equipment, utensils, and even sinks. Meanwhile, in large-scale industrial equipment, particularly in industries such as milk processing, beer brewing, and winemaking, grade 304 stainless steel may be used. 202 stainless steel material manufacturers suppliers in India can offer you a better deal.
Source:- http://sigmapipes.com/how-are-stainless-steel-304-and-stainless-steel-202-different/
