201 - Stainless steel - Cross recess pan head screw

Understanding Grade 201 Stainless Steel

Grade 201 is classified as an austenitic stainless steel, but it differs significantly from the more common 304 grade. It was developed as a lower-cost alternative during periods of high nickel prices. While it shares the bright appearance of traditional stainless steel, its corrosion resistance is notably inferior, making it suitable only for specific, controlled environments.

Chemical Composition and Properties

The Nickel-Manganese Trade-off: Standard 304 stainless steel contains 8-10% nickel, which is a key element for corrosion resistance. Grade 201 reduces the nickel content to just 3.5-5.5% and substitutes it with manganese (5.5-7.5%) and nitrogen. This substitution significantly lowers the raw material cost but also reduces the steel's ability to resist oxidation and rust. Practical Performance: In dry, climate-controlled indoor environments, Grade 201 will maintain its appearance and integrity for many years. However, when exposed to humidity, rain, salt, or acidic substances, it will develop surface rust much faster than 304. It is not recommended for any outdoor application or anywhere moisture is present.

Quality Assurance

Even for economy-grade materials, quality consistency matters. An EN 10204 3.1 Material Certificate is available upon request to verify the chemical composition of the steel. Please note that third-party inspection services require an additional fee.

Recommended Applications

Grade 201 pan head screws are best suited for:

• Indoor Furniture: Office chairs, desks, and shelving units in air-conditioned spaces.
• Dry Electrical Enclosures: Interior junction boxes and control panels away from moisture.
• Consumer Products: Appliance housings and electronics used exclusively indoors.
• Retail Displays: Shop fittings and point-of-sale stands in climate-controlled stores.

Frequently Asked Questions

Will Grade 201 stainless steel rust?

Yes, it can. Unlike Grade 304, which has excellent corrosion resistance, Grade 201 will develop surface rust if exposed to moisture, humidity, or corrosive substances. In a dry indoor environment, it will remain bright and rust-free. However, if you need true "stainless" performance in any outdoor or humid setting, you should upgrade to Grade 304 or 316.

Is Grade 201 magnetic?

Grade 201 is generally more magnetic than Grade 304. Due to its different chemical composition (higher manganese, lower nickel), it tends to exhibit noticeable magnetism even before cold working. This magnetic property is sometimes used as a quick field test to distinguish201 from 304, although it is not a definitive method.

How can I tell the difference between 201 and 304?

Visually, they look almost identical. The most reliable method is chemical testing (using a stainless steel testing solution or XRF analyzer). A simple magnet test can give a hint—201 is usually more magnetic—but this is not conclusive since cold-worked 304 can also become slightly magnetic. When purchasing, always buy from a reputable supplier who can provide material certification.