Industry News

What is the difference between carbon steel plate and stainless steel plate?

2025-06-24

In the field of steel materials, carbon steel plates and stainless steel plates are two core products, mainly used in industries such as construction, vehicle manufacturing and industrial engineering.

Many customers often ask: "Which one is more suitable for my project?" As a leading steel company in China, Wanhetong Steel (shandong) Co., Ltd. (established in July 2021), we focus on carbon steel plates, galvanized steel and other products, with a monthly output of 10 million tons, serving the global market (50% in the Middle East, 20% in Europe, 12% in North America, etc.).

With more than ten years of industry experience and ISO 9001 certification, through this article, we will help you make a better choice from the composition, application and selection suggestions.


Content


  • Composition and basic definition
  • Application scenario
  • How to choose carbon steel plate or stainless steel plate
  • Composition and basic definition

    Carbon steel plate: with iron (Fe) and carbon (C) as the main elements, the carbon content is usually 0.2%-2.1%. This structure gives it high strength and low cost. Wanhetong Steel produces a variety of carbon steel plate products, including carbon steel plates, carbon steel coils and carbon steel pipes, all of which are guaranteed by advanced processes.

    Stainless steel plates: Alloy elements such as chromium (Cr) and nickel (Ni) are added to the iron-carbon basis (chromium content ≥ 10.5%) to form a dense oxide layer to prevent rust. Stainless steel plates are not Wanhetong's main products, but their corrosion resistance is indispensable in some fields.

    Simply put, carbon steel plates focus on economy and practicality, while stainless steel plates emphasize durability and beauty.


    Application scenarios

    Based on Wanhetong Steel's experience in construction, engineering, vehicles and other fields (products are used by global customers), there are obvious differences in the application of the two types of steel plates:


    Carbon steel plate

    Construction industry: used for steel structure frames, roofs (such as Wanhetong color-coated steel plates).

    Vehicle manufacturing: body chassis and components (high strength, easy to process).

    Power engineering: transmission towers and support structures.

    Advantages: Economical and efficient, Wanhetong produces 10 million tons per month and can stably supply large orders.


    Stainless steel plate

    Food packaging: Anti-corrosion, meets hygiene standards.

    Medical equipment: Chemical corrosion resistance.

    High-end decoration: Good aesthetics (carbon steel plate needs color coating).

    Note: Stainless steel plate is expensive, Wanhetong recommends giving priority to carbon steel + coating solution.

    According to Wanhetong's data, in the agricultural and industrial fields (accounting for more than 20% of global applications), carbon steel galvanized sheet is more popular due to its low cost and rust resistance. We support third-party testing and provide customized reports for customers.

    How to choose carbon steel plate or stainless steel plate

    Choose carbon steel plate: when the budget is limited, high strength is required, or rust prevention can be achieved through coating (such as engineering structures). Wanhetong's professional team provides QC certification services.

    Choose stainless steel plate: when the risk of corrosion is high, the aesthetic requirements are strict, or the budget is sufficient (it is recommended to consult professional suppliers).

    Wanhetong solution: We strengthen the advantages of carbon steel plate - through galvanizing and color coating technology, its corrosion resistance is close to that of stainless steel plate, while reducing costs. For example, our color-coated steel has been used in many projects around the world (50% of the market in the Middle East).

    Wanhetong Steel's Commitment

    Carbon steel plates and stainless steel plates have their own advantages: carbon steel plates win in strength and cost, and stainless steel plates lead in corrosion resistance. But for most industrial applications, carbon steel plates (especially galvanized) are a more practical choice. Wanhetong Steel adheres to the corporate purpose of "integrity-based" and provides high-quality carbon steel plates and related products with ISO 9001 certification as a guarantee. We have a 100,000 square meter factory and advanced production lines, support customized services (such as size, coating requirements), and welcome global customers to consult samples or cooperation.


    For more information, please visit Wanhetong Steel's official website www.wht-steel.com or contact the sales team - let professional services help you reduce costs and improve efficiency!


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