Difference between carbon steel and other materials

Carbon steel has significant differences in composition, properties, and applications compared to other materials such as stainless steel and aluminum alloys. The following are the main differences:

1. Composition and Structure
Carbon steel: mainly composed of iron and carbon, with a carbon content of 0.0218%~2.11%, and may contain small amounts of elements such as silicon and manganese. According to carbon content, it is divided into low carbon steel (<0.25%), medium carbon steel (0.25%~0.60%), and high carbon steel (>0.60%). ‌
Stainless steel: containing chromium (≥ 12%) and elements such as nickel and molybdenum, forming a passive film for rust prevention. Divided by organization into austenite (such as 304 stainless steel), martensite (such as 420 stainless steel), etc. ‌
Aluminum gold: Based on aluminum, with the addition of copper, magnesium, zinc and other elements, it has low density and corrosion resistance. ‌
2. Performance comparison
Hardness and strength: High carbon steel has high hardness (HRC58-62), suitable for cutting tools; Stainless steel has lower austenite hardness (HRC52-55), but better toughness. ‌
Corrosion resistance: Stainless steel is corrosion-resistant due to passivation film, while carbon steel requires regular rust prevention; Aluminum alloy is corrosion-resistant but has lower strength. ‌
Plasticity and processability: Low carbon steel has good plasticity and is easy to weld; Stainless steel has high elongation and is suitable for complex processing. ‌
3. Application scenarios
Carbon steel: industrial cutting tools, mechanical parts (such as gears and springs), agricultural machinery. ‌
Stainless steel: kitchenware, medical equipment, building decoration (such as 304 stainless steel). ‌
Aluminum alloy: aerospace, lightweight structures (such as aircraft fuselage). ‌
4. Maintenance costs
Carbon steel requires frequent rust prevention care, while stainless steel has a 67% lower maintenance cost (such as cutting tools). ‌
Aluminum alloy is corrosion-resistant but prone to oxidation, requiring surface treatment