How is waste stainless steel classified for recycling and reuse

Waste stainless steel is a renewable and recyclable resource. Stainless steel factories use waste stainless steel to recycle and add other formulas to produce different types of stainless steel pipes or plates.

In the process of recycling waste stainless steel, it can generally be divided into the following categories based on the nickel content in the stainless steel material: 304 stainless steel, 301 stainless steel, 316 stainless steel, 201/202 stainless steel.

1.304 stainless steel

Most industrial products are made of 304 material, which contains 8-8.5% nickel; Generally, sparks can be distinguished by using a commercial grinder for recycling, and 304 chemical solution is used for testing, so the inspection is generally error free; Of course, if conditions permit, it is good to use a spectral gun for detection, which is fast and accurate.

2.301 Stainless Steel

It is a product with low requirements used to replace 304 material, and its nickel content is between 5.5-7%. Of course, its price will be about 2 yuan per kilogram cheaper than 304. It can be distinguished by strong magnets for detection. Generally, 304 stainless steel will be magnetized, but some 304 stainless steel will also be magnetized, so it is still more accurate to use chemical solutions or spectral guns.

3.316 stainless steel

It is a material with high temperature resistance and high corrosion resistance. The nickel content inside is 12-16%, with an average of 14%. 316 stainless steel with added Mo has excellent corrosion resistance, atmospheric corrosion resistance, and high temperature strength, making it suitable for use under harsh conditions; Excellent work hardening properties (non-magnetic). High temperature strength. 316L stainless steel belongs to austenitic stainless steel and cannot be strengthened by heat treatment. Has good strength, plasticity, toughness, cold formability, and good low-temperature performance. Due to the addition of 2% Mo on the basis of Cr18Ni8, the steel is endowed with good resistance to reducing media and pitting corrosion. It has suitable corrosion resistance in various organic acids, inorganic acids, bases, salts, and seawater. Its corrosion resistance is much better than 304 in reducing acidic media. Generally, spectral guns are used to detect recycling.

4.201/202 stainless steel

It is a common non rusting material with a nickel content of 3-4%. Over time, it will gradually rust, and its price is much cheaper than 304 stainless steel. Due to its low price, many manufacturers use 201 materials instead of 304 stainless steel, which can be easily detected during recycling using a grinder or chemical solution.

The main categories of waste stainless steel recycling are as follows, hoping to help new recyclers identify and distinguish them.

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