Stainless Steel Grades Explained: 304, 316, 430 & Beyond

Stainless steel is grouped by microstructure: austenitic (304/316), ferritic (430), martensitic (410) and duplex. Austenitic grades offer the best corrosion resistance and weldability; ferritic grades are economical for decorative and mild-corrosion use; martensitic grades harden by heat treatment for cutlery and shafts.

When specifying, balance corrosion resistance, strength, formability and cost. 316 adds molybdenum for chloride resistance (marine, chemical). 430 is the workhorse ferritic grade for appliances.

Shanxi Youte Steel supplies these and hundreds of less-common stainless grades with full mill certificates.