This is a common question from our clients who are planning on producing kitchen tools. Grade 304, grade 316 and grade 430 stainless steel are commonly used for kitchen tools, but they have different properties and characteristics. In this article, we will discuss the difference between grade 304, 316 and 430, helping you decide which material is best for your kitchen tools.
What is the main difference between grade 304 vs 316 vs 430 stainless steel? Short answer is the presence of nickel.
Grade 304 stainless steel (also known as 18/8 stainless steel)
304 is the most common variety of austenitic stainless steel. It is extensively used in cookware, cutlery, and kitchen equipment. Grade 304 stainless steel is of higher quality and more resistant to corrosion and rust. It contains a higher percentage of chromium and nickel (8%), making it more durable and suitable for use in kitchen tools. Grade 304 stainless steel has a high tensile strength of roughly 621 MPa (90 ksi) and a high maximum operating temperature of about 870°C (1500℉). Its combination of strength, temperature resistance, and corrosion resistance makes it ideal for various applications such as appliances, cookware, and utensils. Additionally, grade 304 stainless steel is known for its aesthetic appeal and sleek, polished appearance.
Grade 430 stainless steel (also known as 18/0 stainless steel)
On the other hand, grade 430 is not as strong as austenitic stainless steel but does have good resistance against nitric acid. It has a lower tensile strength of 450 MPa (65 ksi) compared to most austenitic stainless steels, but it is still strong enough for many heavy-duty applications. Grade 430 stainless steel is slightly lower in quality and less resistant to corrosion and rust than grade 304 stainless steel. It contains less chromium and does not contain nickel (0%), making it more prone to corrosion in certain conditions. However, it is more affordable than grade 304 stainless steel and can still be suitable for kitchen tools that do not require high corrosion resistance, such as kitchen utensils and some food preparation tools. Additionally, grade 430 stainless steel is ferritic stainless steel, which makes it highly magnetic.
Grade 316 stainless steel (also known as 18/10 stainless steel)
Grade 316 stainless steel is commonly found in medical equipment and is an excellent choice for kitchen tools. It is a higher-quality stainless steel that is highly resistant to corrosion and rust compared to grade 304. Grade 316 stainless steel contains a higher percentage of chromium and nickel (10%), along with the addition of molybdenum, which further enhances its corrosion resistance. This grade of stainless steel is often used in environments where there is exposure to saltwater or harsh chemicals, making it ideal for kitchen tools that come into contact with liquids and food. However, it is important to note that the cost of grade 316 stainless steel is significantly higher, making it less suitable for everyday kitchen utensils. If you are considering a high-end kitchen product, grade 316 may be worth considering.
Stainless Steel Grade | 204 | 304 | 316 | 430 |
Chromium (Cr) Protective layer against corrosion at high temperatures | 18% | 18.5% | 17.5% | 18.5% |
Nickel (Ni) Resistance to oxidation and corrosion | 2% | 9% | 10% | 0% |
Manganese (Mn) Improves strength, workability, and resistance to wear | 1% | 2% | 2% | 1% |
Molybdenum (Mo) Strength, hardness, hardenability, and toughness | 0% | 0% | 2.5% | 0% |
Corrosive resistance | ★★★ | ★★★★ | ★★★★★ | ★★★ |
Strength | ★★★ | ★★★★ | ★★★★★ | ★★★ |
Melting point | 1454–1538°C | 1400-1450°C | 1375–1400°C | 1425-1510°C |
Temperature resistance to oxidation | 450–850°C | 870-925°C | 870-925°C | 870-925°C |
Type | Austenitic | Austenitic | Austenitic | Ferritic |
| - Corrosion resistance - Industrial use - Cheap | - Good corrosion resistance - Strong and toughness - Food grade | - Great corrosion resistance - Strong and toughness - Medical grade | - Good corrosion resistance - Food grade - Magnetic |
Cost | $ | $$$ | $$$$ | $$ |
We hope this additional information helps clarify the differences between these stainless steel grades for kitchen tools. In summary, if you are looking for regular kitchen tools with higher corrosion resistance and durability, grade 304 stainless steel is a better choice. High-end and advanced kitchen tools may consider using grade 316 stainless steel. However, if cost is a significant factor and you do not require high corrosion resistance, grade 430 stainless steel can still be suitable.
Side note:
Another stainless steel grade that you may have heard of is grade 204. Grade 204 stainless steel is a low-cost alternative to grade 304 stainless steel. While grade 204 stainless steel may have some level of corrosion resistance, it is not as durable or resistant to rust as grade 304 stainless steel. It is typically used in applications where corrosion resistance is not a primary concern, such as kitchen sink. Unfortunately, in some convenient shops, you may find cheap kitchen tools that made of grade 204.