Difference Between Carbon Steel Plate and Stainless Steel Plate

The main differences between carbon steel plate and stainless steel plate lie in their composition, properties, appearance, and application scenarios. 

‌Composition and Performance
Composition: Carbon steel plates are mainly composed of carbon and iron, with a carbon content generally not exceeding 2%, while stainless steel plates are doped with elements such as chromium and nickel to form a dense chromium oxide layer, which has the characteristics of corrosion resistance, wear resistance, and aesthetics. ‌

1.Performance: Corrosion resistance: Stainless steel plates have better corrosion resistance than carbon steel plates because the chromium element in stainless steel reacts with oxygen to form a chromium oxide layer, which protects the steel from degradation and corrosion; However, carbon steel has a lower chromium content and cannot form a protective layer, resulting in poor corrosion resistance. ‌

2.Wear resistance: Carbon steel has higher hardness and better wear resistance, while stainless steel has lower hardness and poorer wear resistance.
3.Ductility: Stainless steel has better ductility than carbon steel because it contains more nickel elements, which have good ductility; Carbon steel has poor ductility.
4.Magnetism: Carbon steel contains a high amount of iron element, which makes it magnetic and can be attracted by magnets; Stainless steel is mostly non-magnetic or weakly magnetic products because nickel element suppresses magnetism.
5.Appearance and Application Scenarios Appearance: Stainless steel plates are mostly silver bright in color, with a smooth and glossy surface; Carbon steel plates are mostly black and have a dull surface.

Application scenarios: 
Carbon steel plate: suitable for manufacturing heavy machinery and equipment, such as ships, bridges, construction machinery, etc. It is also widely used in industries such as automobiles, trains, and air transportation. In addition, carbon steel plates have many applications in the construction field, such as making bridges, subway tunnels, water plants, and sewage treatment plants. Stainless steel plate: Due to its excellent corrosion resistance and aesthetic properties, it is widely used in indoor and outdoor decoration, doors and windows, railings, kitchen and bathroom furniture and decorations in the field of architecture. It is also used in food processing, medical equipment, chemical industry, etc. to ensure the hygiene and safety of products.