Key Feature

The Cost-Effective Alternative Piping Solution. Maintains austenitic structure and good mechanical properties with reduced nickel content through manganese and nitrogen substitution.

Provides approximately 20-30% cost savings versus 304 stainless steel pipe while maintaining basic stainless characteristics.

Common Designations

UNS S20100
AISI 201
GB/T 201 (Chinese Standard)
JIS SUS201
Custom mill specifications

Not as universally standardized as 304; specifications vary more by region and manufacturer.

Chemical Composition (Typical wt.%)

C: ≤ 0.15
Cr: 16.0 - 18.0
Ni: 3.5 - 5.5
Mn: 5.5 - 7.5N: ≤ 0.25Si: ≤ 1.00

High manganese and nitrogen replace significant nickel content (vs. 8-10% in 304).

Mechanical Properties

Tensile Strength: ≥ 655 MPa
Yield Strength: ≥ 310 MPa
Elongation: ≥ 40-45%
Hardness: ≤ 241 HB

Higher strength than 304, but may work-harden more rapidly during bending and forming.

Physical Properties

Density: 7.80 g/cm³
Melting Range: 1371 - 1399 °C
Thermal Expansion: 16.0 × 10⁻⁶/K (20-100°C)
Magnetic Response: Slightly magnetic (cold worked)

Slightly less dense than 304; may exhibit mild magnetism after forming.

Pressure Ratings

Schedule 5/10: Light wall applications
Schedule 40: Standard weight
Limited availability in heavy schedules

Generally not used for high-pressure applications; consult manufacturer for specific ratings.

Corrosion Resistance

Moderate resistance to atmospheric corrosion and mild chemicals. Not suitable for marine, acidic, or chloride-rich environments.

Significantly lower than 304, especially for pitting and crevice corrosion.

Welding Characteristics

Fair weldability with proper techniques
Possible Sensitization in HAZ
Lower Corrosion Resistance in welds
Post-Weld Cleaning recommended

More challenging to weld than 304; requires careful procedure control.

Fabrication Notes

• Higher Work Hardening than 304
• More Springback in bending
• Tool Wear may be higher
• Surface Finishing may show differences

Requires adjustment of fabrication techniques compared to 304.

Key Standards

ASTM A312 (some manufacturers)
ASTM A554 (Mechanical Tubing)
GB/T 12771 (Chinese welded pipe)
JIS G3446 (Light gauge tubes)
Custom specifications

Quality and consistency vary significantly between producers.

Common Applications

• Decorative & Architectural: Handrails, guardrails, decorative trim pipes
• Furniture & Display: Furniture frames, display racks, shelving supports
• General Industrial: Non-critical process lines, ventilation ducting, exhaust stacks (indoor)
• Automotive: Decorative exhaust tips, trim pipes (non-structural)
• Consumer Products: Appliance trim pipes, outdoor furniture frames
• Construction: Non-structural supports, decorative elements
• General Purpose: Low-pressure fluid transport (non-critical)

Suitable for applications where appearance and moderate corrosion resistance are priorities over maximum durability.