1.4372 material equivalent Grade
Jun 17, 2025
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What Material Is 1.4372 Equivalent To?
EN 1.4372 is the European standard number for AISI 201 stainless steel, also designated as X12CrMnNiN17-7-5 under EN 10088. It belongs to the Cr-Mn-Ni austenitic stainless steel family, developed as a cost-effective alternative to 304 by replacing some nickel with manganese and nitrogen.
What Is the Composition of Stainless Steel 201?
| Element | Typical Content (%) |
|---|---|
| Chromium (Cr) | 16.0 – 18.0 |
| Nickel (Ni) | 3.5 – 5.5 |
| Manganese (Mn) | 5.5 – 7.5 |
| Nitrogen (N) | ≤ 0.20 |
| Carbon (C) | ≤ 0.15 |
| Silicon (Si) | ≤ 1.0 |
| Phosphorus (P) | ≤ 0.06 |
| Sulfur (S) | ≤ 0.03 |
What Quality Is 201 Stainless Steel?
201 stainless steel is a nickel-saving austenitic steel. Its high manganese and low nickel design makes its cost 30% lower than that of 304. It has acceptable corrosion resistance in dry environments, but is prone to rust in humid, salt spray or acid-base environments, and its pitting corrosion resistance is weaker than that of 304. Its tensile strength is ≥520MPa, and its hardness can reach HRC25 after cold working, but thermal cracks are prone to occur during welding. It is suitable for scenes with low corrosion resistance requirements such as building handrails and kitchen utensils. Electroplating or paint protection is required for outdoor use.
What Is the Difference Between 201 and 301 Stainless Steel?
201 is a nickel-saving austenitic stainless steel (Mn 5.5-7.5%, Ni 3.5-5.5%), which reduces costs by replacing part of nickel with high manganese (about 25% lower than 301), but has weak corrosion resistance and is prone to rust in humid environments. Its tensile strength is ≥520MPa, making it suitable for interior decoration and low-cost structural parts.
301 stainless steel contains 6-8% Ni and no manganese. Its corrosion resistance is significantly better than 201 (strong salt spray resistance), and its strength after cold working can reach more than 1000MPa (such as springs and elevator guide rails), but it is more expensive and is suitable for scenes that require wear resistance and deformation resistance.
Which Is Better, 304 or 201 Stainless Steel?
| Feature | 201 Stainless Steel | 304 Stainless Steel |
|---|---|---|
| Nickel Content | 3.5 – 5.5% | 8.0 – 10.5% |
| Corrosion Resistance | Moderate | Excellent |
| Ductility | Fair | Excellent |
| Price | Cheaper (~30% less) | Higher |
| Weldability | Fair | Excellent |
| Applications | Indoor/Decorative | Industrial/Outdoor/Food-grade |
EN 1.4372 (AISI 201) stainless steel is a practical and affordable choice for manufacturers balancing performance and price. While it doesn't match the corrosion resistance of 304 or 316, it excels in low-corrosive, cost-sensitive settings.
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