Description
Global Standards & Designations
| Region |
Standard |
Grade |
| USA |
ASTM A554 |
UNS S20100 |
| Europe |
EN 1.4372 |
X10CrMnNiN18-8-5 |
| China |
GB 12Cr17Mn6Ni5N |
- |
| India |
IS 5528 |
SS 201 |
Chemical Composition (Weight %)
| Element |
Cr |
Ni |
Mn |
N |
C |
Si |
P |
S |
| Content |
16–18% |
3.5–5.5% |
5.5–7.5% |
0.05–0.25% |
≤0.15% |
≤1.0% |
≤0.06% |
≤0.03% |
Key Properties
Corrosion Resistance:
Resists indoor humidity and urban pollution (not recommended for coastal/marine use).
PREN (Pitting Resistance): 15–18. suitable for dry industrial atmospheres.
Formability:
Superior to 430-grade with 35% elongation (annealed condition).
Magnetic Response:
Slightly magnetic due to strain-induced martensite after cold working.
Mechanical Properties
| Condition |
Tensile Strength |
Yield Strength |
Elongation |
Hardness (HV) |
| Annealed |
655 MPa |
310 MPa |
40% |
210 |
| Cold-Drawn |
860–1.030 MPa |
690 MPa |
12% |
320 |
Why Choose 201 Tubes?
Budget Optimization: 40% cost savings over 304 for non-critical structural projects.
Decorative Versatility: Mirror-polished (No. 8) or color-PVD-coated finishes for retail displays.
Weldability: Compatible with TIG welding using ER308L filler for leak-proof joints.
Recyclability: 65% recycled content aligns with LEED v4.1 certification requirements.
Typical Applications
Furniture: Chair frames, table legs, modular shelving systems.
Architecture: Stair handrails, elevator trim, false ceiling grids.
Retail: Clothing racks, display stands, LED light fixtures.
HVAC: Dry air ducting, vent covers, non-condensing exhaust pipes.
Automotive: Trim for interior door panels, non-structural trailer components.
Fabrication Guidelines
Welding: Limit heat input to ≤1.2 kJ/mm to prevent chromium carbide precipitation.
Bending: Use mandrel bending for radii <2x tube diameter to avoid wrinkling.
Surface Protection: Apply clear-coat lacquer in high-traffic areas to delay oxidation.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: Can 201 tubes replace 304 in outdoor settings?
A1: Not recommended. Use only in covered/dry environments—consider 304 or 444-grade for rain-exposed structures.
Q2: How to restore corrosion resistance after welding?
A2: Passivate welded areas with 20% nitric acid solution at 50°C for 30 minutes.
Q3: Is 201 compliant with food safety standards?
A3: Limited to indirect contact (FDA 21 CFR 175.300). Avoid direct food/acid exposure.
Q4: What wall thicknesses are available?
A4: Standard range: 0.5mm–3.0mm (seamless) / 0.8mm–4.5mm (welded). Custom sizes on request.
Q5: How does 201 compare to 202-grade tubes?
A5: 202 has higher nickel (7–8%) for better corrosion resistance but costs 15% more than 201.
