Austenitic is the most common type of steel. Statistics show that it accounts for roughly two-thirds of all newly produced steel. Not to be confused with martensitic steel, it’s characterized by high levels of carbon and nickel and low levels of carbon. There are different subgroups of austenitic steel, however, including 200 and 300. What’s the difference between 200 and 200 austenitic steel exactly?
What Is 200 Austenitic Steel?
200 is a series or subgroup of austenitic steel. It has higher levels of manganese and nitrogen and lower levels of nickel than other steel series, including the 300 series.
There are different types of 200 series steel, such as 201 and 202. The former can be hardened through cold working, whereas the latter is a more cost-effective “general purpose” type of steel.
What Is 300 Austenitic Steel?
Another common series or subgroup of steel is 300. It has higher levels of nickel and chromium than other steel series.
300 series steel is also available in different types. 304 is a type of 300 series steel that’s characterized by an 18% chromium content. It may have different levels of nickel, but 304 steel always has 18% chromium.
Differences Between 200 and 300 Austenitic Steel
Both 200 and 300 series are types of austenitic steel, but there are subtle nuances between them that shouldn’t go unnoticed. 200 series steel, for instance, typically has more manganese and nitrogen than 300 series steel. 300 series steel, in comparison, has higher levels of nickel.
With more manganese and nitrogen in place of nickel, 200 series steel typically costs less than 300 series steel. This makes it a popular choice for low-stress applications.
300 series steel may cost more, but it offers a superior level of corrosion resistance. Both 200 an 300 series steel are classified as stainless steels. 300 series steel, though, offers better protection from corrosion than 200 series steel due to its high levels of nickel.
300 series steel may contain up to 10% nickel. 200 series steel, in comparison, may contain just 2% to 4% nickel. Nickel protects the underlying iron and other elements from corrosion by forming a protective barrier. When exposed to oxygen, it will oxidize while subsequently creating a hard shell-like barrier. This barrier helps to protect 300 series steel from corrosion.
Because it offers better protection against corrosion, 300 series steel is commonly used in humid and wet environments. It can withstand moisture without rusting or corroding.