This guide provides detailed information on 220 stainless steel. Whether you are a machinist or an engineer, this guide is designed to help you.
We will cover the basics of 220 stainless steel, including its composition, common fabrication methods, and welding tips.
Read and learn more.
What is 220-Grade Stainless Steel?
Type 220 stainless steel is a stainless steel alloy, made up of iron, chromium, nickel, and manganese.
It is also commonly used in industrial manufacturing because of its high durability level. Compared to other grades of stainless steel, 220-grade is more resistant to high temperatures and is less likely to become discolored. Its outstanding properties make it a popular choice amongst manufacturers and consumers alike.
HISTORY
We will now discover how 220 stainless steel evolved over the years.
| YEAR | |
| 1925 | The stainless steel 220 was first developed by the Krupp Iron Works in Essen, Germany. |
| 1933 | Then, in 1933, the material was patented by Krupp in the United States. |
| 1940s | Type 220 steel became widely used in the United States during the World War II era. |
| 1950s | Then throughout the 1950s, the stainless steel 220 was used in both industrial and commercial projects. |
| 1970s | This type of stainless steel was used in the producing surgical instruments and other medical tools. |
| 1980s | In the 1980s, the material began to be used in manufacturing kitchen utensils, food processing equipment, and automotive parts. |
| 1990s | During the 1990s, the stainless steel 220 was popularly used in the aerospace industry. It is particularly for fabricating spacecraft and aircraft components. |
| 2000s | Then during the 2000s, it was used in the fabrication of various consumer goods. It includes kitchen appliances, cookware, and flatware. |
| Today | As of today, the stainless steel 220 is still one of the top metal alloys on the market. It is useful in the automotive industry, food processing, and other industries. |
Chemical Composition
If you know the composition of the material can help you understand how the material will react to certain conditions. It can also help you decide if it is the right material to use for an application.
For 220 stainless steel composition, we compiled it for you:
| Chromium | 16–18% |
| Nickel | 8–11% |
| Manganese | 2% |
| Silicon | 1% |
| Phosphorus | 0.045% |
| Sulfur | 0.03% |
| Carbon | 0.08% |
Advantages of Using Stainless Steel 220
You will never go wrong choosing this type of stainless steel due to the numerous benefits it can offer.
The stainless steel grade 220 is a high-grade alloy that offers superior strength and corrosion-resistant properties than other grades. Therefore, it is perfect in a wide range of harsh environments. That is one of its main advantages.
Another is its excellent protection against heat. 220 stainless steel has high chromium content enabling it to withstand temperatures up to 1400 degrees Fahrenheit without losing its structure. For this reason, it is a great choice for fabrication projects requiring high temperatures. Examples are those found in industrial ovens and boilers.
The cost-effectiveness of type 220 also makes it the most preferable stainless steel alloy. Additionally, the stainless steel 220 has good ductility. This is what makes it advantageous for applications that require forming or welding.
And lastly, its low price point makes it an attractive option for budget-conscious individuals and businesses.
The Possible Drawbacks
Like what we’ve learned above, using 220 stainless steel can be beneficial in many ways. But it also comes with some drawbacks and you should be aware of that.
Here are its possible drawbacks.
- Level of Rust Resistance: The main drawback of using type 220 is its lack of rust resistance. This gives a tendency to gall if not properly heat treated. These are the reasons why it is not recommended for environments exposed to moisture and other corrosive elements.
- High Cost: The material is more expensive than other grades of stainless steel you can find. And sometimes, it may not be cost-effective for some purposes.
- Limited Availability: The grade 220 is rare to find and may be difficult to source. It is not as widely available as other grades.
- Low Strength: The 220-grade stainless steel has a lower strength than others. As result, it is not approved for applications that require high strength.
SS220 Fabrication Methods
There are several different fabrication methods that can be used when working with grade 220. It includes welding, machining, and forming.
Welding
The welding method is the most common fabrication method for stainless steel grade 220. This process involves the use of an electric arc to join two or more pieces of metal together. 220 steel is typically welded using the TIG (Tungsten Inert Gas) process, or the MIG (Metal Inert Gas) process. Both methods create strong and reliable welds that are resistant to wear.
Machining
The machining method is another popular method for fabricating grade 220. This process involves the use of cutting tools to shape the metal into the desired shape. Machining can be used to produce complex geometries and intricate details. It also offers the advantage of being able to produce parts with tight tolerances and high accuracy.
Forming
The forming method is a process that is used to create complex shapes out of stainless steel 220. This process involves the use of specialized presses and tools to shape the steel into the desired shape. Forming can also be used to create components like automotive equipment, aerospace parts, and medical instruments.
These are just a few of the different fabrication methods that can be used when working with 220-grade stainless steel. Each method has its own advantages and disadvantages. So it is important you consider all of the options before deciding which one to use.
Scope of Applications
The scope of applications for stainless steel 220 is wide and varied. Its applications span a wide range of industries, from automotive to medical.
Let’s examine the exact applications of the material for each different industry.
- Automotive: In the automotive industry, stainless steel in 220 is used in automotive manufacturing for parts. Example parts are oil pans, exhaust systems, and fuel lines. Its high protection from rust makes it a good choice for these applications.
- Food Processing: Grade 220 stainless steel is a non-toxic, easy-to-fabricate material. Therefore, it is highly preferred to produce commercial food processing equipment and containers.
- Medical: In the medical industry, 220-grade stainless steel is often used to make surgical instruments, implants, and other medical components.
- Industrial: It is used in industrial applications, such as chemical processing, oil & gas production, and wastewater treatment. Particularly this material is used to make pumps, valves, etc.
- Consumer: In consumer applications, type 220 steel is used to make kitchen appliances, cookware, and utensils.
How Durable is Stainless Steel 220?
Grade 220 is an incredibly durable material. It can withstand temperatures up to 1,000°F (538°C). And it is not affected by exposure to acidic or alkaline solutions. The alloy also has high mechanical strength and is not easily deformed or damaged. In addition, it is resistant to wear & abrasion, making it an excellent choice for components that are subjected to frequent use.
When properly cared for, stainless steel 220 can last for decades. The alloy does not require much maintenance and can simply be wiped down with a damp cloth to remove any debris. It is also a low-maintenance material, as it does not require any special coatings to maintain its quality. With proper maintenance and care, the material can last for many years.
220 VS 210 Stainless Steel: What are the Differences?
Both stainless steel grades, 220 and 210, are the top choice in the commercial & industrial sectors. Each has its own unique properties and applications.
Let’s find out.
| By Properties | By Applications | |
| Grade 210: | Generally cheaper and more malleable making it easier to work with for certain purposes. It also has a lower melting point and is slightly magnetic, making it useful for welding processes. | An ideal choice for medical instruments and kitchen appliances. |
| Grade 220: | Generally more expensive due to its higher melting point and higher strength. It is non-magnetic, making it a better choice for food-related applications. | Ideal for outdoor applications such as structural components and chemical tanks. |
In summary, stainless steel 210 and 220 are both beneficial materials to use in different applications. Therefore, the right stainless steel grade for you will be based on your applications.
Comparing SS 220 and SS 316
These two grades, stainless steel 220 and 316 have numerous differences.
Consider the following.
Type of Grades
220 is a ferritic stainless steel grade that is often used for general-purpose applications. While the 316 is an austenitic stainless steel grade that is used in more corrosive environments.
Characteristics
Grade 220 is referred to as a “general-purpose” grade because it has a good combination of strength, ductility, and corrosion resistance. It is also slightly magnetic and has a relatively low melting point. Compare to 316, it offers extreme safety against crevice corrosion in chloride-containing environments.
Cost
When it comes to cost, 220 is typically less expensive than 316. However, the higher cost of 316 stainless steel is often offset by its superior corrosion-proof and superior mechanical properties.
Tear & Wear Resistance
Grade 316 is more resistant to wear & tear than 220 stainless steel. Then this makes it ideal for applications that require high durability.
Proper Maintenance for 220 Stainless Steel
Here are some effective tips for proper maintenance:
The first tip is cleaning. To clean your stainless steel 220, you will need soft clothing, mild soaps, and boiled water. Make sure to rinse thoroughly afterward.
Next is polishing. If there are scratches, remove them and restore the original shine by using a stainless-steel polish. This will help keep the metal looking its best.
Then add protection. To protect your stainless steel from any corrosions and staining, you only need a protective coating like wax & oils. These can help prolong the stainless steel’s life and maintain its great looks.
The last tip is storing. When not in use, store the stainless steel in a dry, cool place. Avoid storing it in areas that are prone to moisture and heat to prevent deterioration.
By following these simple tips, you can help ensure that your 220 stainless steel will remain in top condition for years to come. Regular maintenance and cleaning are essential for keeping the metal looking great while performing its best.
PRICE
The price of SS220 is determined by a variety of factors, including the thickness, the quality, and the current market conditions.
For now, we will discuss its following price based on various thicknesses.
| By Thickness | USD Rate |
| 0.020 inches | $0.41 per square foot |
| 0.030 inches | $0.60 per square foot |
| 0.060 inches | $1.19 per square foot |
| 0.125 inches | $2.45 per square foot |
| 0.250 inches | $4.90 per square foot |
CONCLUSION
We hope after reading this guide it has given you a comprehensive understanding of 220 stainless steel and its many uses.
With its strong corrosion resistance, high ductility, and excellent weldability, grade 220 is the best choice for various applications. We wish you success in finding the right 220 stainless steel products for your project.
If you need a reliable supplier, we are ready to work with you! Contact us.