It is surprising how many differences there are to different steel products. As a consumer or homeowner, they probably all look very similar to you. However, there are hundreds, if not thousands, of different types of steel products. Many of these differing steel items are used in the manufacturing process to create items like airliners, food and beverage packaging, and even steel appliances. Understanding the differences is not extremely important as a consumer, but it can be helpful to have a basic understanding.
Monel vs stainless steel products
It is likely that you have heard about stainless steel. Stainless steel is actually very common in today?s household, with many appliances being produced with stainless steel products. Stainless steel is popular because it is extremely durable, long lasting, and looks nice. When paired with modern kitchens, stainless steel appliances fit perfectly to complete a modern and open kitchen feel.
Monel products are less heard of but are also actually quite common. The ingredients of what makes up the steel products are what cause the differences between the stainless steel and the monel steel. Monel steel includes small additions of aluminum and titanium. These ingredients together form a type of alloy. Different forms of the steel may also be added into the ingredients, including 660 stainless steel, 38 stainless, or nickel 400 and nickel 405. The numbers usually classify the specific count of stainless or monel steel that is present.
Temperature ratings
Different numbers may also be attached to the type of stainless steel to signify the temperature of heat it can handle. Some appliances, including ovens and dishwashers, have to withstand large amounts of heat and require high heat properties, such as the 660 stainless. Even smaller connective parts can require high heat ratings, such as the structural steels found in large buildings. These specific steel products have to withstand weather and heat temperatures. Minimum yield strengths are used to set a minimum required heat, with the 660 stainless minimum strength requirement being 660.
Extremely durable stainless steel 306
In addition to 660 stainless, another very common yield of stainless steel used is stainless steel 306. Five of the most common applications for stainless steel 316 are laboratory equipment, jet engine parts, boat fittings, food and pharmaceutical processing equipment, and chemical containers. Using stainless steel 306 for chemical containers speaks to the strength and durability of it. Additionally, jet engine parts must withstand extremely heated temperatures, making stainless steel 306 one of the most durable products.
The even stronger aluminum alloy 2014
There are steel products that are even stronger than the 660 stainless and stainless steel 306 products. Aluminum alloy 2014 is one of the strongest heat treatable products available. It is often used for forging alloy for aircraft parts. However, both the stainless steel 306 and the aluminum alloy 2014 may be used for forging and designing aircraft parts. Different products may be used for the internal designs versus the external designs.
There are hundreds of different types of steel available today. Each of these steel products has unique uses in different industries. The stainless steel that is used in your home appliances differs from the stainless steel that is used on an aircraft. Currently, stainless steel 304 is the number one most common grade of stainless steel, but other types of steel including 660 stainless, stainless steel 306, and aluminum alloy 2014 are also frequently used. Stainless steel products are chosen based on their durability, strength, and temperature ratings.
