Stainless steel is a cornerstone of modern engineering, prized for its corrosion resistance, strength, and versatility. However, with multiple grades available, selecting the optimal type requires careful consideration of environmental exposure, mechanical demands, and fabrication requirements.
At Burnhouse Engineering, we recognise that material selection directly impacts performance, longevity, and cost-efficiency. With decades of experience in precision machining and fabrication across industries – including aerospace, medical, and energy – we’ve developed this guide to help businesses navigate the complexities of stainless steel selection.
The Advantages of Stainless Steel in Industrial Applications
Stainless steel’s widespread use stems from its unique properties:
- Aesthetic Versatility: Available in polished, brushed, or matte finishes, stainless steel meets both functional and design needs.
- Corrosion Resistance: Unlike carbon steel, stainless forms a passive chromium oxide layer, protecting against rust in moist or chemically aggressive environments. However, resistance varies by grade – some alloys withstand chlorides (e.g., marine settings), while others excel in acidic or high-temperature conditions.
- Strength and Durability: While not the lightest material, stainless steel offers an exceptional balance of strength and corrosion resistance, making it ideal for structural components in harsh environments.
- Hygienic Properties: Its non-porous surface makes it indispensable in medical devices, pharmaceuticals, and food processing, where cleanliness is critical.

Key Types of Stainless Steel and Their Industrial Uses
Stainless steel falls into four primary categories, each suited for different applications:
1. Austenitic Stainless Steel (300 Series)
- Most common, accounting for ~70% of industrial use.
- Non-magnetic, highly weldable, and corrosion-resistant.
- Grade 304: Cost-effective for food processing, architectural components, and general applications.
- Grade 316/316L: Enhanced with molybdenum for superior resistance to chlorides (e.g., marine, chemical processing). 316L (low carbon) is preferred for welding to prevent carbide precipitation.
- Grade 303: A free-machining variant (with added sulfur) for high-volume production but slightly reduced corrosion resistance.
2. Ferritic Stainless Steel (400 Series)
- Magnetic, moderate formability, and cost-effective.
- Grade 430: Good oxidation resistance for appliances, automotive trim, and industrial machinery.
- Grade 409: Titanium-stabilised for exhaust systems (better thermal cycling resistance).
- Limitation: Less weldable than austenitic grades due to grain growth.
3. Martensitic Stainless Steel
- High hardness, heat-treatable, and magnetic.
- Grade 410/420: Used in cutting tools, surgical instruments, and turbine blades where wear resistance is critical.
- Grade 440C: Ultra-high hardness for bearings and valves.
4. Duplex Stainless Steel
- Combines austenitic and ferritic properties – higher strength and better corrosion resistance.
- Grade 2205: Ideal for oil and gas, desalination plants, and chemical processing.
- Grade 2507 (Super Duplex): For extreme environments like seawater piping and offshore rigs.

Selecting the Optimal Grade for Your Project
Choosing the right stainless steel isn’t just about picking a grade – it’s about matching the material to your project’s unique demands. Start by asking: Where and how will this part be used?
If your component will face saltwater, chlorides, or harsh chemicals, 316L or duplex grades (like 2205 or super duplex 2507) are your best bet – they’re built to resist pitting and crevice corrosion. For high-temperature environments, like exhaust systems, ferritic 409 or heat-treated martensitic 410 offer great performance without breaking the bank.
Need extra strength for heavy loads or high-pressure applications? Duplex steels or hardened martensitic grades deliver the toughness you need. And if wear resistance is a priority (think cutting tools or bearings), hardened 420 or 440C stand up to constant friction.
Fabrication matters, too. If you’re machining complex parts in high volumes, 303 stainless is easier on your tools – just keep it away from corrosive settings. And when welding is critical, low-carbon grades like 316L or 304L help prevent cracking and maintain corrosion resistance.
Still unsure? That’s where we come in. At Burnhouse Engineering, we’ll help you navigate these choices to find the perfect balance of performance, durability, and cost.
Partnering with Burnhouse Engineering for Precision Stainless Steel Solutions
With decades of expertise in stainless steel fabrication, Burnhouse Engineering delivers precision components that meet stringent industry standards. From prototyping to full-scale production, we collaborate with clients to select the ideal material and manufacturing approach, ensuring performance, durability, and cost-efficiency.
Need expert guidance? You can speak to our team at Burnhouse Engineering, where our specialists will help you select the best material and deliver precision-engineered components tailored to your exact requirements.