Pipe fittings are products that are necessary for work involving the installation or repair of pipes. However, pipe fittings are also available in different materials. This article will discuss how to choose between carbon steel and stainless steel fittings.

Carbon Steel Fittings

The difference between carbon steel fittings and stainless steel fittings

The main difference between carbon steel pipe fittings and stainless steel pipe fittings is the difference in material, stainless steel is alloy steel. Carbon steel and stainless steel produce different refined softness due to different compositions, and there are many types of carbon steel. Stainless steel pipe fittings in a sense will not rust, carbon steel pipe fittings will rust if not on the anti-rust oil or spray paint. Carbon steel pipe fittings can be made in larger sizes of finished products.

The chemical composition contained in the surface of stainless steel pipe fittings will remain for a long time will not rust, and not easy to be corroded. Stainless steel pipe fittings are made of materials that will keep the pipe from producing quality problems and ensure the service life of the fittings.

Stainless Steel Fitting

Carbon steel pipe fittings vs. stainless steel pipe fittings: which one to choose?

Both carbon steel fittings and stainless steel fittings are used to manufacture components and structural members for a variety of applications. The following factors need to be considered when choosing.

1. Tensile strength and weight

Both carbon steel and stainless steel have fairly high tensile strengths and weights. Pipe applications are based on the requirements of the manufacturing process of the application. The ductility of the material depends on the specifications at the time of extrusion, and the conditions are similar for both alloys. Typically, these fittings are milled; metalworking can expect similar results between the two materials.

2. Reactivity

For applications that do not require reactivity, stainless steel is the ideal choice. Perhaps it is domestic, commercial, and industrial applications. However, carbon steel can also react with food to alter its flavor and cause health problems. Stainless steel, on the other hand, does not handle interactions.

3. Machinability

Stainless steel has excellent corrosion resistance machinability, making it easy to use in a wide range of industrial applications. This includes hardening to make durable machine parts, even without machining losses such as cutting, cracking, and welding to form long-term joints.

4. Budget

Probably the biggest single factor in choosing carbon steel over one of the stainless grades is its lower cost. Carbon steel fittings can be made thinner than fittings of other materials, which gives them a greater load-bearing capacity for the same size, which makes them cheaper upfront. As a result, it has become the preferred choice for piping systems in some cases and is considered a cheaper alternative to stainless steel.

In summary, when choosing pipe fittings, the most suitable choice needs to be made based on your industry's situation and budget. Hebei Pipefun Pipe and Fitting Facility Co., Ltd. is delighted to provide you with stainless steel and carbon steel fittings, feel free to contact us for a free quote.