SS201 is a low-nickel austenitic stainless steel: part of the nickel in SS304 is replaced with manganese and nitrogen. It costs less than SS304 and is strong and shiny, so it is widely used in India for kitchenware, furniture, railings and decorative tubes. Its corrosion resistance is lower than SS304, so it can rust or stain outdoors, near the sea or with chemicals.
Quick facts
- Type
- Austenitic, chromium–manganese–nickel
- Nickel
- About 3.5–5.5% (SS304 about 8–10.5%)
- Manganese
- About 5.5–7.5%
- Chromium
- About 16–18%
- Corrosion
- Lower than SS304
- Magnetic
- Slightly, more after cold working
SS201 or SS304?
| SS201 | SS304 | |
|---|---|---|
| Cost | Lower | Higher |
| Corrosion resistance | Lower | Good |
| Outdoors, coastal, chemicals | Not recommended | Suitable for most |
| Strength | Slightly higher | Good |
| Food contact | Avoid for wet or acidic food | Common choice |
Typical chemical composition
| Element | % |
|---|---|
| Chromium (Cr) | About 16–18 |
| Nickel (Ni) | About 3.5–5.5 |
| Manganese (Mn) | About 5.5–7.5 |
| Nitrogen (N) | About 0.25 max |
| Carbon (C) | About 0.15 max |
Values are typical. The exact limits depend on the standard and supplier; ask for the mill test certificate when it matters.
Good to know
- Grades sold as J1, J4 and similar are low-nickel stainless steels of the 200 series
- A magnet test does not reliably tell 201 from 304; ask for the mill certificate or a chemical test
- Name the grade on the drawing to avoid 201 being supplied in place of 304
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Questions
- Does SS201 rust?
- It can rust or stain in wet, salty or acidic conditions where SS304 would stay clean.
- How can I check if steel is 201 or 304?
- A spark or chemical test, or a handheld XRF analyser, shows the nickel content; a magnet test is not reliable.
- Is SS201 the same as SS202?
- They are similar low-nickel grades; SS202 has a little more manganese and nickel.
The figures on this page are typical values for guidance, written by Diemeco from standard engineering practice. They are not a specification: confirm grades and properties with the relevant standard or the supplier's mill test certificate, and tolerances with your workshop. Last checked 29 October 2026.