At Kalpataru Piping Solutions, we offer a diverse range of high-quality stainless steel products, including duplex stainless steel and 304 stainless steel. These materials are used in various industrial applications, but each is suited to unique needs depending on their composition and properties. In this guide, we will compare duplex stainless steel with 304 stainless steel to help you choose the right material for your specific requirements.
What is Duplex Stainless Steel?
Duplex stainless steel is a combination of austenitic and ferritic stainless steels, providing enhanced strength, toughness, and superior corrosion resistance, especially in highly corrosive environments. With higher levels of chromium and molybdenum, duplex steel is highly resistant to pitting, crevice corrosion, and stress corrosion cracking. Kalpataru Piping Solutions is a trusted duplex Stainless Steel Supplier, offering products to industries requiring exceptional mechanical properties and resistance to harsh conditions. Common applications include the oil and gas industry, marine environments, chemical processing plants, and power plants.
What is 304 Stainless Steel?
304 stainless steel, also known as SS 304, is an austenitic stainless steel containing approximately 18% chromium and 8% nickel. This material is known for its excellent corrosion resistance, making it suitable for mild to moderate conditions. 304 Stainless Steel Suppliers often used in food processing, automotive, and chemical processing. While SS 304 performs well in standard conditions, it is less suited for highly corrosive environments when compared to duplex stainless steel, making it more cost-effective for applications where moderate corrosion resistance is sufficient.
Differences Between Duplex Stainless Steel and 304 Stainless Steel
Corrosion Resistance
- Duplex stainless steel excels in high pressure applications, such as exposure to seawater or chemicals, offering superior resistance to stress corrosion cracking, pitting, and crevice corrosion.
- 304 stainless steel offers good corrosion resistance in milder environments but may not withstand highly acidic or salty conditions.
Strength and Durability
- Duplex stainless steel has higher mechanical strength and toughness than 304 stainless steel, making it more durable and resistant to high mechanical stresses.
- 304 Stainless Steel performs well in moderate stress conditions but lacks the strength and toughness of Duplex Steel.
Cost
- 304 stainless steel is more affordable and widely available, making it an excellent choice for applications with less mechanical requirements.
- Duplex stainless steel is more expensive due to its complex manufacturing process and higher raw material costs.
Why Choose Duplex Stainless Steel from Kalpataru Piping Solutions?
- Superior Corrosion Resistance: Duplex Stainless Steel is ideal for industries facing corrosive conditions, ensuring extended performance and minimal maintenance.
- High Strength and Durability: With its dual-phase structure, Duplex Steel provides exceptional strength, toughness, and resistance to deformation.
- Industrial Applications: Whether it’s chemical processing, marine environments, or oil and gas, Duplex Stainless Steel ensures reliable performance in demanding industries.
For more information on Duplex Stainless Steel, 304 Stainless Steel, and to request a quote for your next project, contact Kalpataru Piping Solutions today! We specialize in providing stainless steel solutions as per your unique needs.
FAQs
Does 304 stainless steel rust?
304 stainless steel is resistant to rust in normal atmospheric conditions but can corrode under certain circumstances, such as exposure to chloride environments.
What are the disadvantages of 304 stainless steel?
304 stainless steel can experience pitting and crevice corrosion in warm chloride environments and stress corrosion cracking above 60°C (140°F).
Is duplex stainless steel expensive?
Yes, duplex stainless steel is generally more costly than regular stainless steels, with grades like 904L being particularly expensive.



