SUS201 vs SUS304 2b stainless steel sheet
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When sourcing stainless steel for decorative panels, kitchen appliances, or fabrication parts, buyers often compare SUS201 and SUS304 2B stainless steel sheets. Although they may look similar in surface finish, their chemical composition, corrosion resistance, and durability are very different-making material selection critical for cost-performance and long-term reliability.
What Is 201 Stainless Steel plate?
SUS201 stainless steel is a chromium–nickel–manganese austenitic stainless steel defined under JIS G4304/G4305. It is often used as a cost-effective alternative to SUS304, especially for indoor and non-corrosive applications.
Key Advantages of 201 Stainless Steel Cold Rolled Sheet
1. Economical composition design
The cost is reduced by 30-50% compared with 304 by using low nickel (3.5-5.5%) and high manganese (5.5-7.5%) alloy ratio, but the carbon content (≤0.15%) is higher than 304, and the risk of intergranular corrosion needs to be controlled.
2. Mechanical properties
The tensile strength of the annealed state is ≥520MPa, which can be increased to 700-1000MPa after cold working, and the hardness is HB250-300, which is suitable for high-strength thin-walled parts, but weak magnetism may be generated after processing.
3. Corrosion resistance
It is better than 400 series in dry atmosphere and weak alkaline environment, but its resistance to chloride ion corrosion is weak, and solid solution treatment is required after welding to avoid intergranular corrosion (sensitization range of 450-850℃).
What Is SUS304 2B Stainless Steel Sheet?
SUS304 belongs to 300 series austenitic stainless steel (corresponding to national standard 06Cr19Ni10). 2B plate is the surface state after cold rolling, bright annealing and flattening treatment. It has a smooth matte texture (roughness Ra≤0.8μm) and delicate metallic luster. It is one of the most commonly used stainless steel cold-rolled plate surfaces.
SUS304 Stainless Steel Sheet 2b Finish Advantages
Surface Finish: Produced by cold rolling, bright annealing, and leveling. With a surface roughness of Ra ≤ 0.8 μm, it offers a matte finish that is smoother than 2D sheets and more economical than 8K mirror finishes-balancing aesthetics and practicality for kitchen and indoor applications.
Processing Adaptability: The oxide layer is thin and uniform, making the material suitable for deep drawing and stretching without cracking or scratching. The fine matte texture also enhances paint and electroplating adhesion.
Corrosion Resistance & Cleanability: The bright-annealed passive film is denser than that of 2D sheets, providing better atmospheric corrosion resistance. The smooth surface is easy to clean and complies with food-grade hygiene standards.
Cost Efficiency: As a standard cold-rolled process, it is more economical than BA or mirror finishes, making it well-suited for industrial applications such as pressure vessels and piping in large volumes.
What is the difference between SUS201and SUS304 2B Stainless Steel Sheet?
SUS201vs.SUS304 2B Stainless Steel Sheet Corrosion Resistance

Chemical Composition Comparison (Typical Values)
| Element | SUS201 (% by weight) | SUS304 (% by weight) |
|---|---|---|
| Carbon (C) | ≤ 0.15 | ≤ 0.08 |
| Manganese (Mn) | 5.5 – 7.5 | ≤ 2.00 |
| Phosphorus (P) | ≤ 0.06 | ≤ 0.045 |
| Sulfur (S) | ≤ 0.03 | ≤ 0.03 |
| Silicon (Si) | ≤ 1.00 | ≤ 1.00 |
| Chromium (Cr) | 16.0 – 18.0 | 18.0 – 20.0 |
| Nickel (Ni) | 3.5 – 5.5 | 8.0 – 10.5 |
| Nitrogen (N) | ≤ 0.25 | ≤ 0.10 |
Mechanical Properties Comparison (Annealed Condition, 2B Finish)
| Property | SUS201 | SUS304 |
|---|---|---|
| Tensile Strength (MPa) | ≥ 520 | ≥ 520 |
| Yield Strength (MPa) | ≥ 275 | ≥ 205 |
| Elongation (%) | ≥ 40 | ≥ 40 |
| Hardness (HRB) | ≤ 100 | ≤ 90 |
| Density (g/cm³) | ~7.90 | ~7.93 |
Need help choosing the right stainless steel for your application?
At Gnee, we offer full size stock and surface customization services of SUS304 2B stainless steel plates, thickness from 0.3mm to 6.0mm, width up to 1500mm, custom cutting, laser services and export packaging, 100% PMI, mechanical testing, surface roughness control before delivery.
In addition, we also offer a wide range of stainless steel plates, SUS304 brushed stainless steel plate, SUS304 polished stainless plate, SUS304 8K mirror finish steel sheet, SUS304 Stainless Steel Bright Annealed Plate, SUS304 stainless steel checker plate, SUS304 stainless steel perforated plate.
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