Steel and stainless steel are two commonly used materials in the manufacturing industry. Both are strong, durable, and long lasting. They also share some similarities in their composition and properties. Despite these similarities, there are some significant differences between clean steel and stainless steel. This article will examine the differences between these two materials and explain why one might be preferable to the other in certain situations.
What is Clean Steel?
Clean steel is a common type of steel that is used in many industries. It is made from a combination of iron and carbon and is typically combined with other elements to enhance the properties of the steel. Clean steel is often used to make components and parts that need to be resistant to corrosion, heat, and wear and tear. Clean steel is also relatively inexpensive compared to other types of steel.
What is Stainless Steel?
Stainless steel is a type of steel that includes chromium, which helps to make it resistant to rust and corrosion. Stainless steel is much more durable than clean steel and is often used in applications that require greater strength. The addition of chromium also makes stainless steel more expensive than clean steel.
Difference in Composition
The main difference between clean steel and stainless steel is in their composition. Clean steel is made from iron and carbon, while stainless steel contains chromium. The addition of chromium to stainless steel helps to make it more resistant to corrosion and wear and tear. Stainless steel also has a higher melting point than clean steel, making it more suitable for high-temperature applications.
Difference in Properties
Clean steel and stainless steel have different properties due to their different compositions. Clean steel is less durable than stainless steel and is more prone to corrosion. Stainless steel, on the other hand, is much more resistant to corrosion and is also stronger. Clean steel is also more susceptible to wear and tear than stainless steel.
Difference in Cost
The cost of clean steel and stainless steel is another important factor to consider when choosing between the two. Clean steel is generally cheaper than stainless steel due to its simpler composition. Stainless steel, on the other hand, is more expensive because of its added chromium content. The cost difference between the two can vary depending on the manufacturer and the quantity purchased.
Uses for Clean Steel
Clean steel is often used in applications that require strength, but do not require high levels of corrosion resistance. Clean steel is commonly used in structural applications such as bridges, buildings, and roads. It is also used to make components and parts that require high levels of strength but do not necessarily need to be resistant to corrosion. Clean steel is often used in the automotive industry for parts such as engine blocks, exhaust systems, and other vehicle components.
Uses for Stainless Steel
Stainless steel is often used in applications that require corrosion resistance and strength. It is commonly used in the medical and food industries, as it is resistant to bacteria and other contaminants. Stainless steel is also used in the construction industry for structural components that require strength and corrosion resistance. It is often used in coastal regions, as it is resistant to salt water corrosion. Stainless steel is also used for kitchen appliances, cutlery, and other items that require a high level of corrosion resistance.
Difference in Weldability
Weldability is another important difference between clean steel and stainless steel. Clean steel is easier to weld than stainless steel, as it has a lower melting point. Stainless steel is more difficult to weld due to its higher melting point.
Difference in Finish
The finish of clean steel and stainless steel can also vary. Clean steel is usually finished with a protective coating, such as paint or powder coating. Stainless steel is often left in its natural state and does not require a protective coating. The finish of stainless steel can also be polished to create a more aesthetically pleasing finish.
Difference in Maintenance
Maintenance is another difference between clean steel and stainless steel. Clean steel requires regular maintenance, such as painting or powder coating, in order to maintain its protective finish. Stainless steel does not require regular maintenance and can retain its finish for longer periods of time.
Difference in Magnetic Properties
The magnetic properties of clean steel and stainless steel also differ. Clean steel is magnetic, while stainless steel is not. This difference in magnetic properties can be important in certain applications, such as electronics.
Difference in Corrosion Resistance
The corrosion resistance of clean steel and stainless steel also varies. Clean steel is less resistant to corrosion than stainless steel due to its simpler composition. Stainless steel is much more resistant to corrosion due to its chromium content.
Difference in Environmentally Friendly Materials
Finally, clean steel and stainless steel differ in their environmental friendliness. Clean steel is not considered a green material, as it is made from iron and carbon. Stainless steel, on the other hand, is considered a green material due to its chromium content, which helps to make it more resistant to corrosion.
Conclusion
Clean steel and stainless steel are two commonly used materials in the manufacturing industry. Despite their similarities, there are several differences between the two materials, including their composition, properties, cost, and corrosion resistance. When choosing between the two, it is important to consider the application and the desired properties of the material. In some cases, clean steel may be more suitable, while in others, stainless steel may be preferable.