What is the difference between SS202 and SS304?

SS202 replaces part of the nickel with manganese and nitrogen, so it costs less but resists corrosion less well. SS304 is the safer choice for food, water and outdoor use.

It is used for some dry kitchen items, but for food equipment that handles acids, salt or washing chemicals, SS304 or SS316 is the right choice.

How do I know my steel is 202 and not 304?

Ask for the mill test certificate, or have a sample checked with a spectrometer. They look alike and are both non-magnetic.

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SS202 stainless steel

Also called: AISI 202, 1.4373, 202 stainless, low nickel stainless, J4, 200 series stainless

SS202 is an austenitic stainless steel in which much of the nickel of 304 is replaced by manganese and nitrogen. It looks like 304 and costs less, but resists corrosion less well, so it suits indoor and decorative uses rather than food acids, chemicals or coastal air.

Quick facts

Type: Austenitic (200 series) stainless steel
Main alloys: About 17–19% chromium, 4–6% nickel, 7.5–10% manganese
Cost: Lower than 304
Corrosion resistance: Lower than 304
Magnetic?: Non-magnetic when annealed
Common forms: Sheet, tube and pipe

Equivalent grades

Standard	Grade
AISI / ASTM	202 (UNS S20200)
EN	1.4373

Where it is fine, and where it is not

Fine: indoor furniture, railings and decorative tubes, kitchen utensils for dry use, appliance trim
Not recommended: food equipment handling acids or salt, chemical plants, coastal or outdoor exposure, pharmaceutical equipment: use 304 or 316
It can stain or pit sooner than 304 if cleaned with chloride or acid cleaners

How to tell 202 from 304

They look the same. A supplier's mill test certificate, or a spectrometer check at a testing lab, confirms the grade; a magnet does not, since both are non-magnetic when annealed.

Need parts made in SS202 stainless steel?

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Questions

What is the difference between SS202 and SS304?: SS202 replaces part of the nickel with manganese and nitrogen, so it costs less but resists corrosion less well. SS304 is the safer choice for food, water and outdoor use.
Is SS202 food grade?: It is used for some dry kitchen items, but for food equipment that handles acids, salt or washing chemicals, SS304 or SS316 is the right choice.
How do I know my steel is 202 and not 304?: Ask for the mill test certificate, or have a sample checked with a spectrometer. They look alike and are both non-magnetic.

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 8 October 2026.