What is AISI 201 Stainless Steel?
SUS201 / AISI 201 stainless steel is an austenitic stainless steel with the following main components: Chromium (Cr): 16–18%, Nickel (Ni): 3.5–5.5%, Manganese (Mn): 5.5–7.5%. SUS201 was developed to be an economical alternative to SUS304, offering high strength, good formability, and moderate corrosion resistance. While SUS304 remains the preferred choice for harsh or highly acidic food environments, SUS201 is widely used in indoor kitchen equipment, decorative panels, and other food contact applications where high corrosion resistance is not required.
Is 201 Stainless Steel Food Safe?
Yes, 201 stainless steel is generally considered food-safe for dry or mild conditions, but it is less resistant to corrosion than higher grades like 304. Because its lower nickel content makes it more susceptible to rust and the leaching of metal ions (like manganese) in acidic or high-salt environments, it's best to use it for applications with minimal exposure to moisture, salt, and acids, such as decorative items.
Chemical Composition of SUS201
| Element | SUS201 |
|---|---|
| Carbon (C) | ≤ 0.15% |
| Chromium (Cr) | 16.0 – 18.0% |
| Nickel (Ni) | 3.5 – 5.5% |
| Manganese (Mn) | 5.5 – 7.5% |
| Nitrogen (N) | ≤ 0.25% |
| Phosphorus (P) | ≤ 0.06% |
| Sulfur (S) | ≤ 0.03% |
Mechanical Properties
| Property | SUS201 |
|---|---|
| Density (g/cm³) | 7.93 |
| Tensile Strength (MPa) | ≥ 520 |
| Yield Strength (MPa) | ≥ 275 |
| Elongation (%) | ≥ 40 |
| Hardness (HB) | ≤ 201 |
Corrosion Resistance
201 stainless steel offers moderate oxidation and corrosion resistance, making it suitable for dry indoor environments such as kitchen countertops, cabinets, and decorative panels. For acidic or high-humidity environments, SUS304 or 316L stainless steel is recommended.
Hygienic Surface
The smooth, non-porous surface of 201 stainless steel prevents bacterial growth. It can be polished or finished to 2B, No.4, or BA surfaces for easy cleaning and maintenance.
Cost-Effectiveness
201 stainless steel has a lower nickel content than SUS304 stainless steel, resulting in a 20% to 35% cost reduction. It provides an affordable solution for indoor food contact applications.
Can SUS201 stainless steel come into direct contact with food?
Yes, SUS201 stainless steel is generally suitable for indoor low-acid environments and is safe for food contact. For highly acidic foods or marine environments, SUS304 or 316L stainless steel is recommended.
Can SUS201 stainless steel be used for kitchen utensils?
Absolutely. It is widely used in kitchen utensils, cabinets, sinks, and decorative panels, especially in higher-cost applications.
How to clean and maintain SUS201 stainless steel in food applications?
Clean regularly with a mild detergent and water. Avoid prolonged contact with acidic substances to prevent surface discoloration.
What is the difference between food-grade stainless steel 201 and 304?
The main difference is that 304 stainless steel has higher corrosion resistance and is more expensive due to its higher chromium and nickel content, while 201 stainless steel is a more affordable alternative but has lower corrosion resistance, higher manganese, and can be more prone to rust and staining. While both are food-grade, 304 is generally preferred for higher-end applications where long-term durability and hygiene are critical, while 201 is suitable for less demanding applications and is often found in lower-cost kitchenware.
If you are looking for food-safe stainless steel materials, Gnee can supply AISI 201 / SUS201 stainless steel sheets, coils, and tubes with high quality, international certification, and comprehensive testing. Our stainless steel products meet industrial and food-grade standards, making them ideal for kitchen equipment, food processing, and general hygiene applications where cost-effectiveness is key.
igh-Quality Stock: Sheets, coils, strips, and tubes available in SUS201 / AISI 201.
Certified Compliance: ISO 9001, SGS, BV, and MTC (EN 10204 3.1) available.
Custom Services: Cutting, polishing, surface treatment, and bending as per project needs.
Global Logistics Support: Fast and secure delivery with export-standard packaging.
Technical Assistance: Detailed chemical composition, mechanical properties, and food safety guidance.
