If you're not sure what the difference is between carbon and stainless steel, you're not alone. In fact, it's one of the most common questions we receive as a full-service metal supplier. To help, we decided to break down some key facts about each type of steel, providing tips on how to tell the difference between them and when you should use one over the other.

Difference Between Carbon Steel & Stainless Steel

Carbon Steel

Carbon steel is made up of iron and carbon. It contains between 0.3% and 1.7% carbon, making it a medium to high carbon steel. It is strong and tough, but also harder to weld and work with than other types of steel. It is commonly used in construction, automotive, and machine parts. It is one of the most popular materials used for kitchen knives. Carbon steel knives are known for their sharpness and durability, and they can be easy to sharpen. However, carbon steel knives can also be susceptible to rust and staining, so they require a bit more care than stainless steel knives.

Stainless Steel

Stainless steel is an alloy of iron, chromium, and carbon. It contains at least 10.5% chromium, which gives it its corrosion-resistant properties and ease of care. It is also non-magnetic and does not rust easily. Stainless steel is commonly used in kitchenware, medical instruments, and architectural structures. Stainless steel is another popular choice for kitchen knives. They can be more difficult to sharpen than carbon steel knives. Stainless steel knives are also more expensive than carbon steel knives. Now that you know the basics about each type of steel, let's take a closer look at some of the key differences between them.

Appearance

One of the easiest ways to tell the difference between carbon and stainless steel is by their appearance. Carbon steel is typically darker in color, while stainless steel is usually lighter or silver in color.

Durability

Both carbon and stainless steel are durable materials. However, carbon steel is less resistant to corrosion than stainless steel. This means that it may rust over time, especially if it is exposed to moisture or other elements. Stainless steel, on the other hand, is more resistant to corrosion and is less likely to rust.

Cost

Another key difference between carbon and stainless steel is their cost. Carbon steel is typically cheaper than stainless steel. This is because it is made with less expensive materials and does not contain chromium. Stainless steel, on the other hand, is more expensive due to the addition of chromium. So, which type of steel should you use? It really depends on your needs. If you need a strong and durable material that is resistant to corrosion, then stainless steel is a good choice. However, if you are looking for a cheaper option, then carbon steel may be a better choice.

When to Use Carbon Steel and Stainless Steel

Carbon steel and stainless steel are two of the most widely used types of steel. They are both incredibly versatile, making them suitable for a wide range of applications. But what exactly is the difference between these two types of steel? Carbon steel is an alloy of iron and carbon, whereas stainless steel is an alloy of iron, chromium, and carbon. Carbon steel is less corrosion-resistant than stainless steel, but it is cheaper and easier to work with. Stainless steel is more corrosion-resistant but also more expensive. When choosing between carbon steel and stainless steel, it is important to consider the environment in which the material will be used. If the material will be exposed to corrosive elements, then stainless steel is the better choice. If the material will not be exposed to corrosive elements, then carbon steel may be a better choice. Carbon steel is best suited for applications that do not require corrosion resistance, such as construction projects or cooking utensils. Stainless steel is best suited for applications that require corrosion resistance, such as food processing or medical equipment.

Know The Facts

If you're new to working with metals, it's important to know the difference between carbon and stainless steel. Here are some key facts about each type of steel:

Facts on Carbon Steel

-Carbon steel is an alloy of iron and carbon -It's also called "mild steel" because of its low carbon content -Carbon steel is cheaper than stainless steel, but it also rusts more easily -It's not as strong as stainless steel, so it's not ideal for projects that require a lot of force

Fact on Stainless Steel

-Stainless steel is an alloy of iron, chromium, and carbon -Chromium is what gives stainless steel its resistance to rust and staining -Stainless steel is more expensive than carbon steel, but it's also stronger and more durable -It's ideal for projects that will be exposed to the elements, or where a lot of force is required.

Conclusion

When it comes to choosing between carbon and stainless steel, it really depends on what you're looking for in terms of durability, appearance, and cost. If you need a strong and durable material that is resistant to corrosion, then stainless steel is the way to go. However, if you're looking for a cheaper option that still offers some resistance to corrosion, then carbon steel may be a better choice. Ultimately, the decision comes down to your personal preferences and needs. Do you have any questions about the difference between carbon and stainless steel? Ask us in the comments below!