The two most common types we use in stainless steel grills are austenitic and ferritic.
Grade 304 is the most common austenitic steel grade, alloyed with a higher nickel content and a lower steel content. This kind of steel has higher quality and higher cost. However, only the most expensive cookware uses 304 exclusively, since most grills use more than two types of steel.
304 stainless steel is a widely used steel, especially for grills. It's heavily used in high-end grills, and it's not magnetic. It is now the main material of barbecue. The mixture consists of 18% chromium, 8% to 10% nickel, and up to 0.008% carbon. It is highly resistant to external elements and high-temperature cooking. All this for a low price and very good looks.
443 stainless steel is rarer but notorious in grilling circles. It is the most rust-resistant type of stainless steel and, contrary to popular belief, is magnetic due to its high chromium content. This steel has a high chromium content, but mainly titanium. Titanium guarantees stability when exposed to high temperatures. This special blend provides better resistance to external elements such as humidity, salt, and rust.
While most ferritic alloys cannot compete with austenitic alloys for durability, the high chromium content in 443 makes it at least as corrosion-resistant as 304. And, compared to 304, 443 expands with even less heat, which means less stress and less warping. Remember that 443 is magnetic due to its high content of chromium. However, that doesn't mean it's low-quality stainless steel! Chromium is one of the most corrosion-resistant metals around, even with magnets on it!
Zhejiang Hanjun Metal Products Co., Ltd. is a stainless steel dish rack supplier and stainless steel grill factory, specializing in Stainless Steel Compression Fittings.
