WHAT IS IT?
Stainless steel is a steel alloy containing at least 10.5% chromium by mass. The chromium forms a passive chromium oxide layer on the surface that prevents corrosion — the 'stainless' property. Nickel, molybdenum, titanium, and other elements are added for specific properties.
MAIN GRADES
Grade 304 (most common — 18% Cr, 8% Ni):
Food processing equipment, kitchen appliances, sinks
Chemical containers
Architecture and building cladding
Standard commercial austenitic grade
Grade 316 (18% Cr, 10% Ni, 2% Mo):
Marine applications (molybdenum resists chloride corrosion)
Medical implants and pharmaceutical equipment
Coastal architecture
Chemical processing (stronger acid resistance)
Grade 201 (Lower Ni, Higher Mn):
Cheaper alternative to 304
Consumer goods, cookware
Popular in cost-sensitive markets
Grade 430 (Ferritic, no Ni):
Automotive trim, appliances
Magnetic (unlike austenitic grades)
No nickel = lower cost
KEY USES
Kitchen equipment and cookware
Food and beverage processing equipment
Chemical plant and piping
Architecture and building facades
Medical devices
Automotive exhausts
Marine and offshore equipment
TRADE CORRIDORS
Major producers: China (dominant — 55%+ of global), India, Japan, South Korea, Taiwan, Europe (Outokumpu, Aperam)
Major buyers: Southeast Asia, Middle East, USA, Europe
Tetra relevance: China and South Korea → SEA/East Africa corridor. Nickel price is key cost driver.
PRICING BASIS
LME nickel is the primary price driver (8–10% of grade 304 composition). Chinese domestic hot rolled coil (HRC) stainless prices on Shanghai Futures Exchange. Physical prices on Platts/MEPS.
SPECIFICATIONS (304 Coil)
Cr: 18.0–20.0%
Ni: 8.0–10.5%
C: max 0.08%
Mn: max 2.0%
Surface finishes: 2B (cold rolled, bright), BA (bright annealed), No.4 (brushed)