202 stainless steel | Details
2023-05-26
What is 202 stainless steel?
202 stainless steel is a type of austenitic stainless steel that is widely used in various applications. It is part of the 200 series of stainless steels, which are known for their excellent corrosion resistance and formability. The composition of 202 stainless steel typically includes around 17-19% chromium, 4-6% nickel, and small amounts of other elements such as manganese, nitrogen, and carbon. This combination of elements provides 202 stainless steel with good resistance to corrosion in various environments, including mild acids, alkalis, and atmospheric conditions. It is often chosen for applications where a high level of corrosion resistance is required, such as in the production of kitchen utensils, appliances, automotive trim, and architectural components. Additionally, 202 stainless steel exhibits good formability, making it suitable for fabrication processes like bending, shaping, and welding. Its moderate strength and affordability make it a popular choice in many industries where a balance between corrosion resistance, formability, and cost-effectiveness is important.
Chemical composition of 202 stainless steel
The chemical composition of 202 stainless steel typically includes the following elements:
Chromium (Cr): 17-19%
Nickel (Ni): 4-6%
Manganese (Mn): 7.5-10%
Silicon (Si): 1%
Nitrogen (N): 0.25% maximum
Carbon (C): 0.15% maximum
Phosphorus (P): 0.060% maximum
Sulfur (S): 0.030% maximum
These are the primary elements that make up the composition of 202 stainless steel. The exact composition may vary slightly depending on the specific manufacturer or standard. The combination of these elements gives 202 stainless steel its corrosion resistance, formability, and other desired properties.
What is the mechanical performance of 202 stainless steel?
In terms of mechanical performance, 202 stainless steel has the following characteristics:
Tensile Strength: The tensile strength of 202 stainless steel typically ranges between 515 and 730 megapascals (MPa). It is a measure of the steel’s resistance to breaking under tension and indicates its ability to withstand pulling or stretching forces.
Yield Strength: The yield strength of 202 stainless steel is generally around 275 to 405 MPa. It represents the stress level at which the steel begins to deform permanently and is an important factor in determining its overall strength.
Elongation: The elongation of 202 stainless steel is typically in the range of 40% to 60%. Elongation measures the amount of deformation the steel can undergo before it fractures and is an indicator of its ductility.
Hardness: The hardness of 202 stainless steel is typically in the range of 85 to 95 on the Rockwell B scale (HRB). Hardness determines the steel’s resistance to indentation or scratching and can provide an indication of its strength and wear resistance.
It’s important to note that the mechanical properties of stainless steel can vary depending on factors such as manufacturing processes, heat treatment, and the specific composition of the alloy.
What are the physical properties of 202 stainless steel?
The physical properties of 202 stainless steel include the following:
Density: The density of 202 stainless steel is typically around 7.75 grams per cubic centimeter (g/cm³) or 7750 kilograms per cubic meter (kg/m³). Density is a measure of the mass per unit volume and can provide insights into the steel’s weight and compactness.
Melting Point: The melting point of 202 stainless steel is generally around 1398 to 1420 degrees Celsius (2550 to 2590 degrees Fahrenheit). This temperature indicates the point at which the solid steel transitions into a liquid state.
Thermal Conductivity: The thermal conductivity of 202 stainless steel is relatively low compared to other metals, typically ranging between 16 and 19 watts per meter-kelvin (W/(m·K)). Thermal conductivity determines the steel’s ability to conduct heat and is an important factor in heat transfer applications.
Electrical Conductivity: The electrical conductivity of 202 stainless steel is generally lower than that of pure metals like copper or aluminum. It typically ranges between 2 and 3 percent of the International Annealed Copper Standard (IACS). Electrical conductivity measures the steel’s ability to conduct an electric current.
Magnetic Properties: 202 stainless steel is generally non-magnetic in the annealed condition, but it may exhibit some degree of magnetism after cold working or deformation. However, it is not as strongly magnetic as ferritic or martensitic stainless steels.
Expansion Coefficient: The coefficient of thermal expansion of 202 stainless steel is typically around 16 to 18.5 microstrains per degree Celsius (µm/m·°C). This value represents the steel’s dimensional change in response to temperature variations.
It’s important to note that the physical properties of stainless steel can vary depending on factors such as composition, processing, and specific alloy variations.
What are the characteristics of 202 stainless steel?
The characteristics of 202 stainless steel include the following:
Corrosion Resistance: 202 stainless steel offers good corrosion resistance, especially in environments where mild corrosion is expected. It provides resistance to atmospheric conditions, mildly corrosive chemicals, and freshwater environments. However, it is less resistant to corrosive elements such as acids, alkalis, and chlorides compared to higher-grade stainless steels like 304 or 316.
Cost-Effective: One of the significant advantages of 202 stainless steel is its lower cost compared to other stainless steel grades. It contains less nickel, which makes it more affordable while still providing adequate corrosion resistance for many applications.
High Strength: 202 stainless steel has good strength properties, offering decent tensile and yield strengths. While not as strong as higher-grade stainless steels, it still provides sufficient strength for many structural and industrial applications.
Formability: 202 stainless steel exhibits good formability, allowing it to be easily formed and fabricated into various shapes. It can be rolled, bent, and welded without significant issues. This property makes it suitable for a range of applications, including kitchenware, automotive trim, and architectural components.
Heat Resistance: 202 stainless steel has moderate heat resistance, enabling it to withstand elevated temperatures. It can handle temperatures up to around 900 degrees Celsius (1652 degrees Fahrenheit) without significant loss of mechanical properties.
It’s worth noting that the characteristics of 202 stainless steel can vary depending on specific manufacturing processes, heat treatments, and alloy variations.
Is 202 stainless steel magnetic?
Yes, 202 stainless steel is generally magnetic. While it belongs to the austenitic family of stainless steels, which are typically non-magnetic in the annealed (softened) condition, 202 stainless steel can exhibit some degree of magnetism. This is primarily due to its lower nickel content compared to other austenitic stainless steels. The presence of other alloying elements, such as manganese, can contribute to the magnetism of 202 stainless steel, especially after cold working or deformation. However, it is important to note that the magnetism of 202 stainless steel is not as strong as that of ferritic or martensitic stainless steels, which are inherently magnetic.
What are the uses of 202 stainless steel?
202 stainless steel finds application in various industries and sectors due to its specific properties and cost-effectiveness. Some common uses of 202 stainless steel include:
Utensils and Kitchenware: 202 stainless steel is commonly used in the production of utensils, cookware, and kitchen appliances. Its corrosion resistance, formability, and attractive appearance make it suitable for items such as pots, pans, cutlery, sinks, and food processing equipment.
Architecture and Construction: The durability, aesthetic appeal, and cost-effectiveness of 202 stainless steel make it a popular choice for architectural and construction applications. It is used in decorative elements, handrails, staircases, elevator doors, interior fittings, and exterior cladding.
Automotive Trim and Accessories: 202 stainless steel is used in the automotive industry for various trim components, such as bumpers, grills, exhaust systems, and decorative accessories. Its corrosion resistance and formability are beneficial in these applications.
Railway and Transportation: 202 stainless steel is utilized in the railway and transportation sectors for components like door panels, interior trim, and decorative elements. Its strength, corrosion resistance, and ability to withstand vibrations make it suitable for these applications.
Appliances and Electrical Enclosures: The cost-effectiveness and corrosion resistance of 202 stainless steel make it a suitable material for appliances, including refrigerators, dishwashers, ovens, and washing machines. It is also used in electrical enclosures and control panels.
Industrial Equipment: 202 stainless steel is employed in various industrial equipment and machinery, such as storage tanks, chemical processing equipment, conveyor systems, and valves. Its corrosion resistance and strength properties make it suitable for these applications.
Furniture and Decorative Items: Due to its aesthetic appeal and durability, 202 stainless steel is used in the production of furniture, decorative items, and fixtures. It can be found in tables, chairs, lighting fixtures, bathroom fittings, and other interior design elements.