201 Stainless Steel Rod
The 201 Stainless Steel Rod is a premium-grade steel product known for its excellent corrosion resistance, strength, and versatility. Made from high-quality stainless steel alloy, this rod is commonly used in a variety of industrial and manufacturing applications. With a unique blend of chromium and nickel, the 201 Stainless Steel Rod offers superior durability and is an ideal solution for both commercial and residential projects. Its resistance to oxidation and rust makes it an attractive material for long-lasting and low-maintenance products.
- Product Introduction
201 stainless steel rods are the go-to for projects where 304's price tag feels excessive, but carbon steel's rust issues won't cut it. With a clever mix of manganese (5.5–7.5%) and nitrogen (0.1–0.25%) replacing half the nickel in traditional austenitics, these rods tackle indoor corrosion, moderate loads, and high-volume bending-all at 25% lower cost than 304. Think retail displays, furniture frames, and decorative hardware that needs to look sharp without breaking budgets.
The Nickel-Saver Formula
Why 201 Stands Out:
Cr/Ni/Mn Balance: 16–18% chromium + 3.5–5.5% nickel + manganese boost = corrosion resistance good enough for dry climates and urban interiors.
Workhorse Geometry: Available in diameters 6mm–150mm (hot-rolled) or 2mm–50mm (cold-drawn), with hexagonal, round, or square profiles.
Weld-Friendly: Lower carbon (≤0.15%) minimizes carbide precipitation in heat-affected zones.
Head-to-Head: 201 vs. Common Alternatives
Application | 201 Rods | 304 Rods | Galvanized Steel |
---|---|---|---|
Cost per Meter (12mm) | $4.20 | $5.80 | $2.90 |
Rust Resistance | 5+ years indoors (no salt/humidity) | 10+ years | 2–3 years |
Aesthetic Lifespan | Retains brushed finish 2x longer than galvanized | Polished finish lasts indefinitely | Coating flakes over time |
Recyclability | 85% scrap value retention | 90% | 40% |
Key Specs & Standards
Global Names:
ASTM: UNS S20100
EN: 1.4372
India: J4 (IS 6911)
China: 12Cr17Mn6Ni5N
Mechanical Properties
Condition | Tensile Strength | Yield Strength | Elongation | Hardness |
---|---|---|---|---|
Cold-Drawn | 750–950 MPa | 380 MPa | 40% | 85–95 HRB |
Hot-Rolled | 520–670 MPa | 210 MPa | 55% | 70–80 HRB |
Where 201 Rods Shine
Retail & Hospitality
Clothing racks, menu board frames, boutique shelving.
Pro Tip: Combine with electrocolored finishes for Instagram-worthy displays.
DIY Furniture
Table legs, chair bases, modular storage systems.
Case Study: A Bali resort saved $12k using 201 rods for 200 outdoor lounge chairs (under shaded areas).
Architectural Detailing
Stair handrails, balcony accents, lighting fixture arms.
Light Industrial
Conveyor system guides, packaging machine components, non-critical fasteners.
Fabrication Know-How
Bending: Minimum bend radius = 2x rod diameter (cold-drawn). Preheat hot-rolled rods to 300°C for tight bends.
Welding: Use ER308L filler for critical joints; no post-weld annealing needed for thicknesses <6mm.
Surface Prep: For mirror polish, start with 180-grit belts, finish with 1500-grit buffing.
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