430 stainless steel is a widely used ferritic stainless steel that has excellent corrosion resistance, high formability, and relatively low cost compared to other stainless steel alloys. This article will provide an in-depth overview of 430 stainless steel, discussing its characteristics, typical applications, prices, and market trends. We will also compare 430 stainless steel with other common stainless steel grades. Wanzhi Steel specializes in the production of various stainless steel products, such as plates, strips, wires, coils, etc., all of which accept customized sizes. Feel free to contact us for consultation.

What is 430 Stainless Steel?

430 stainless steel is a chromium-based ferritic stainless steel that contains mainly chromium (about 16-18%) and small amounts of carbon, silicon, and manganese. It is magnetic and is known for its resistance to oxidation and corrosion in mildly corrosive environments.

1). Unlike 304 stainless steel, 430 stainless steel does not contain nickel, which makes it less resistant to corrosion and chemicals in harsh environments. Although it is not as corrosion-resistant as austenitic stainless steels (such as 304 and 316), it is widely used in applications that require moderate corrosion resistance and high cost-effectiveness.

2). In addition, due to the lack of nickel, 430-grade stainless steel is more prone to cracking during the pressing process. However, it still has good thermal conductivity, making it ideal for applications with high heat dissipation requirements. It also has slightly better heat resistance than 304 stainless steel, which is very beneficial in some industrial applications.

Chemical composition

The chemical composition of 430 stainless steel usually includes:

 

Physical properties

Density: 7.75g/cm³ (or 7.7g/cm³, data from different sources vary slightly).

Melting point: 1425~1510℃, some say 1427℃.

Thermal expansion coefficient: smaller than austenite, the specific value is 13×10/°C between 20°C and a certain temperature (the value varies in different temperature ranges).

Thermal conductivity: 42.3W/m·°C at room temperature, some say 23.9W/m·K (at 100℃).

Elastic modulus: 205GPa at room temperature (the value varies at different temperatures).

Specific heat capacity: 242J/kg·°C at room temperature.

Resistivity: 0.31Ωmm²/m, some say 0.60×10^-6Ω·m.

Mechanical properties

Tensile strength: The tensile strength of 430 stainless steel is usually 450-600 MPa (may vary in the annealed state).

Yield strength: The yield strength of 430 stainless steel is about 205 MPa.

Elongation: Its elongation is 22-30%.

Yield strength: ≥205MPa (or N/mm², may vary in the annealed state).

Elongation: ≥22%.

Reduction of area: ≥50%.

Hardness: HBW≤183 (or HBS≤183, HRB≤88, HV≤200, data may vary depending on the processing state).

Key Properties of 430 Stainless Steel

Property	430 Stainless Steel	304 Stainless Steel	316 Stainless Steel
Chromium (Cr)	16-18%	18-20%	16-18%
Carbon (C)	0.12% max	0.08% max	0.08% max
Nickel (Ni)	0%	8-10%	10-14%
Manganese (Mn)	1.00% max	2.00% max	2.00% max
Tensile Strength	450 MPa (min)	520 MPa (min)	580 MPa (min)
Yield Strength	205 MPa (min)	210 MPa (min)	240 MPa (min)
Elongation	25% (min)	40% (min)	40% (min)
Magnetic Properties	Magnetic	Non-magnetic	Non-magnetic
Corrosion Resistance	Moderate	Good	Excellent

 

As shown in the table, 430 stainless steel has a higher carbon content than 304 and 316 stainless steel but is still less expensive because it contains no nickel. It is important to note that unlike the 304 and 316 grades, which are non-magnetic, 430 stainless steel is magnetic.

Applications of 430 stainless steel

430 stainless steel is widely used due to its balance between cost, formability, and corrosion resistance. The following are industries where 430 stainless steel is commonly used:

430 Stainless Steel Price

The price of 430 stainless steel varies depending on product specifications, market conditions, and order size, as well as packaging methods, including raw material prices and supply and demand fluctuations. The most important factor affecting its cost is the price of chromium, one of the main alloying elements, and the specifications of the product. Since 430 stainless steel does not contain nickel, it is generally more affordable than 304 or 316 stainless steel.

As of 2025, the price of 430 stainless steel can be roughly estimated as follows:

Price per metric ton of material (US dollars)

430 stainless steel 1,800 – 2,200 US dollars

304 stainless steel 3,000 – 3,500 US dollars

316 stainless steel 3,500 – 4,000 US dollars

These prices are approximate and may vary depending on location, quantity, and specific market conditions. In addition, global fluctuations in the prices of key raw materials such as chromium and iron will affect the pricing of stainless steel alloys.

 

To obtain accurate, real-time prices,

it is recommended to Consult Professional Online Technicians.

Characteristic

Corrosion resistance: 430 stainless steel has good corrosion resistance in mild environments, such as oxidizing acid solutions (such as nitric acid), but it cannot resist oxidation caused by chemicals in the air, so it may oxidize (rust) after long-term exposure to complex environments. Therefore, it is not suitable for highly corrosive environments.

Thermal conductivity: Its thermal conductivity is better than that of austenitic stainless steel.

Magnetism: 430 stainless steel is magnetic due to its ferrite structure.

Stability: The addition of the stabilizing element titanium has good mechanical properties at the weld.

Processability: It has good processing properties and is suitable for cutting, bending, welding, polishing, and other processes.

430/304/316/201/410 stainless steel grade comparison

Features	Steel Grade
Name	430 ss steel	304 ss steel	316 ss steel	201 ss steel	410 ss steel
Corrosion resistance	Good	Excellent	Marine grade	Good	General
Price	Cheap	Slightly more expensive	More expensive	–	–
Nickel content	0%	8%	10%	3.5%	–
Magnetic properties	Yes	None	None	None	Yes
Chromium content	18%	18%	18%	18%	Higher than 430
Strength	Average	Higher	Highest	General	General
Weldability	Limited solderability	High weldability		Rust-prone	Prone to rust
Characteristics	Industrial grade	Most widely used	High price	Industrial grade	Industrial grade

430 Stainless steel In Stock

In summary, 430 stainless steel is a solid choice for applications that require moderate corrosion resistance and affordability.

Wanzhi Steel is one of the wholesale stainless steel manufacturers and suppliers in China, which stocks a wide range of SS products in 304, 316, 201,204, 430, etc. Our product range includes stainless steel coils, sheets, strips, plates, etc. Due to its excellent corrosion resistance, smooth surface, high plasticity, and toughness, stainless steel is widely used in construction projects, automobiles, kitchenware, industrial equipment, food industry, etc.

We also supply ss wire mesh products such as Stainless steel rope mesh, Stainless Steel Mesh Screen, and Perforated Stainless Steel Mesh.

 

If you have other questions, don’t hesitate to Get In Touch With Us.

( Inquire Online or send an email to Info03@wanzhisteel.com.)

 

 

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