When you’re sourcing materials for a product that needs to resist rust, stay strong, and look clean, you’re likely to run into a lot of stainless steel types. One popular choice is 18/8 stainless steel. If you’re not sure what those numbers mean or whether it’s the right fit for your project, this article will give you a clear answer.
This guide breaks down what makes 18/8 stainless steel valuable in different industries. Let’s take a closer look at its makeup, uses, and key features.
What Is 18/8 Stainless Steel?
18/8 stainless steel is an alloy mainly made of iron, chromium, and nickel. Chromium provides rust resistance, while nickel helps maintain the metal’s stability and shine. The typical blend is 18% chromium and 8% nickel, balanced with iron and tiny amounts of other elements. These different elements might include carbon and manganese to add strength.
The name “18/8” describes the percentage of chromium and nickel in the alloy. The first number, 18, refers to chromium, while the second number, 8, refers to nickel. This simple naming helps manufacturers quickly identify the alloy and its corrosion-resistant qualities. It’s often listed as Type 304 stainless steel by industry standards.
Chemical and Physical Properties
18/8 stainless steel offers a reliable mix of strength, heat resistance, and corrosion protection. Below are its key physical and mechanical properties based on standardized test data.
Densité et point de fusion
This alloy has a density of 8.0 g/cm³, making it fairly dense but still workable. It melts at 1,400–1,450°C, which enables it to maintain its strength under high temperatures.
Thermal and Electrical Behavior
Its thermal conductivity is 16.2 W/m·K at 100 °C, allowing moderate heat transfer. The electrical resistivity stands at 720 nΩ·m at 20 °C, meaning it’s not a good electrical conductor. That’s useful in electronic enclosures or high-temperature setups.
Propriétés mécaniques
- Résistance à la traction: 515 MPa
- Limite d'élasticité : 205 MPa
- Dureté: 70–85 HRB (Rockwell B), 201–262 HB (Brinell)
- Modulus of Elasticity: 193 GPa
- Poisson’s Ratio: 0.29
These figures demonstrate that 18/8 is robust and can withstand pressure without breaking. It retains its shape under stress and can withstand bending, forming, or deep drawing.
Corrosion and Magnetism
Its corrosion resistance is excellent due to the chromium content. It stays rust-free in air, water, and most chemicals. It is non-magnetic in its annealed state, which makes it suitable for medical, food, and specific electronic applications.
| Propriété | Value / Description |
|---|---|
| Densité | 8,0 g/cm³ |
| Point de fusion | 1,400–1,450 °C |
| Conductivité thermique | 16.2 W/m·K at 100 °C |
| Electrical Resistivity | 720 nΩ·m at 20 °C |
| Résistance à la traction | 515 MPa |
| Limite d'élasticité | 205 MPa |
| Dureté | 70–85 HRB / 201–262 HB |
| Module d'élasticité | 193 GPa |
| Poisson's Ratio | 0.29 |
| Propriétés magnétiques | Non-magnetic (annealed state) |
| Résistance à la corrosion | Excellent, especially in moist or acidic settings |
Fabrication et transformation
18/8 stainless steel is processed through a series of controlled steps to ensure strength, cleanliness, and formability. Below are key points on how it’s made and shaped for industrial use.
How 18/8 Stainless Steel Is Produced？
The process begins with melting raw materials, such as iron, chromium, and nickel, in an electric arc furnace. The molten metal is then refined to remove impurities. After this, the steel is cast into slabs or billets. These are hot-rolled into sheets or bars.
To improve structure and remove stress, the material is annealed and then pickled to clean the surface. The result is a clean, corrosion-resistant sheet ready for further use.
Common Forming and Machining Techniques
18/8 stainless steel can be cut, bent, and welded with ease. It handles estampillage, deep drawing, and rolling without cracking. Standard machining methods include:
- Découpe au laser: Clean edges with little heat distortion
- Punching and stamping: Great for high-volume shapes
- TIG/MIG welding: Strong joints with a low risk of rust
- Usinage CNC: Precise cuts for complex shapes
Surface Finishes and Treatments
This stainless steel can be fini in various ways, depending on the desired function and appearance. Common finishes include:
- Finition 2B: Smooth, dull finish for general use
- BA (Bright Annealed): Shiny and reflective
- Brushed (#4): Fine lines for visible parts like appliances
- Mirror polish: Very smooth, often used in cleanrooms or kitchens
It can also be passivated to remove free iron and further enhance corrosion resistance.
Comparaison avec d'autres aciers inoxydables
18/8 stainless steel is often compared with other common grades. Each type has its strengths, depending on where and how it’s used. Here’s how 18/8 stacks up.
18/8 vs 304 Stainless Steel
There is no difference between 18/8 and 304 stainless steel. They are the same grade. “18/8” is a simple way to describe the chromium and nickel content. “304” is the official designation used in industry standards. Both offer the same level of corrosion resistance, strength, and workability.
18/8 vs 316 Stainless Steel
316 stainless steel includes 16–18% chromium, 10–14% nickel, and adds 2–3% molybdenum. This additional molybdenum provides better corrosion resistance, particularly against salt, chemicals, and chlorides. It’s often used in marine, chemical, and medical settings.
| Caractéristique | 18/8 (304) | Acier inoxydable 316 |
|---|---|---|
| Nickel | 8% | 10–14% |
| Molybdène | Aucun | 2–3% |
| Résistance à la corrosion | Très bien | Excellent (better for salt) |
| Coût | Inférieur | Plus haut |
| Use Case | General | Harsh environments |
Benefits of 18/8 Stainless Steel
18/8 stainless steel is popular because it performs well, lasts a long time, and stays clean. These features make it a top pick across industries. Here’s a breakdown of the main benefits.
Durabilité et longévité
18/8 stainless steel resists rust, stains, and chemical damage. It handles everyday wear without breaking down. It also resists dents and cracks under pressure. These features make it ideal for products that require long-term durability, even in harsh environments.
Hygiene and Cleanability
The surface of 18/8 is smooth and non-porous. This means it doesn’t trap food, bacteria, or dirt. It cleans easily with water and mild soap. That’s why it’s widely used in kitchens, hospitals, and laboratories where hygiene is crucial.
Apparence esthétique
This steel keeps its shine over time. It looks clean, modern, and professional. It doesn’t tarnish or discolor easily. Its appearance makes it a popular choice for appliances, fixtures, and exposed surfaces.
Environmental Sustainability
18/8 stainless steel is fully recyclable. Old parts can be melted down and reused without losing quality. Its long life also means fewer replacements and less waste. That helps reduce the environmental impact of products made with it.
Applications courantes
18/8 stainless steel is trusted in many industries. Its strength, cleanliness, and corrosion resistance make it a go-to material. Below are some of its most common uses.
Kitchenware and Food Processing Equipment
18/8 stainless steel is widely used in cookware, cutlery, sinks, and food prep tables. It doesn’t react with food or leave a metallic taste. It handles frequent washing and resists stains from sauces, oils, and acids. Food processing machines and storage tanks also rely on 18/8 for their sanitary surfaces.
Instruments médicaux et chirurgicaux
The smooth, rust-free surface of 18/8 stainless steel is perfect for medical tools. Items such as trays, forceps, and surgical tables are made from this material. It withstands harsh cleaners and sterilization methods, such as steam and chemicals.
Utilisations dans la construction et l'architecture
Architects and builders typically use 18/8 stainless steel for railings, wall panels, and decorative trims. It withstands outdoor conditions such as rain and pollution. Its clean finish adds a modern look to buildings while resisting wear and tear.
Automotive and Transportation Components
18/8 stainless steel is used in trim, exhaust systems, and brackets. It handles heat, moisture, and road salts. That makes it valuable in trucks, trains, and buses, where parts must last and stay strong over time.
Conclusion
18/8 stainless steel is a durable, rust-resistant alloy made of 18% chromium and 8% nickel. It offers strong performance in kitchens, hospitals, factories, and construction. It is easy to form, clean, and reuse. It also withstands heat, pressure, and corrosion. That’s why it remains a top choice across industries.
Are you seeking a trustworthy supplier for stainless steel parts or custom fabrication? Contactez-nous dès aujourd'hui pour obtenir l'aide d'un expert et un devis rapide pour votre prochain projet.
Hey, je suis Kevin Lee
Au cours des dix dernières années, j'ai été immergé dans diverses formes de fabrication de tôles, partageant ici des idées intéressantes tirées de mes expériences dans divers ateliers.
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Kevin Lee
J'ai plus de dix ans d'expérience professionnelle dans la fabrication de tôles, avec une spécialisation dans la découpe au laser, le pliage, le soudage et les techniques de traitement de surface. En tant que directeur technique chez Shengen, je m'engage à résoudre des problèmes de fabrication complexes et à favoriser l'innovation et la qualité dans chaque projet.
