202 Stainless Steel Bar – Properties, Applications & Price in India
202 Stainless Steel Bar is one of the most popular and cost-effective stainless steel grades used across multiple industries. It belongs to the 200 series austenitic stainless steels, developed as a cheaper alternative to 304 stainless steel. With a lower nickel content and higher manganese, 202 stainless steel provides good strength, formability, and moderate corrosion resistance at a much more affordable price. This balance of performance and economy makes SS 202 Bars widely used in India in construction, decorative items, furniture, kitchenware, and general engineering.
In this article, we will explore the composition, properties, advantages, applications, price trends, and comparison with 304 stainless steel to help you understand why 202 stainless steel bar is a practical choice for many industries.
What is 202 Stainless Steel Bar?
A 202 Stainless Steel Bar is a long, solid metal product made from grade 202 stainless steel, available in shapes like round, square, hexagonal, and flat bars. It is versatile and can be easily machined, welded, and fabricated into finished products.
The main reason for the popularity of SS 202 bars is their ability to provide good corrosion resistance in normal atmospheric conditions while being significantly cheaper than 304 stainless steel bars. However, it should be noted that 202 SS bars are not recommended for environments with high chloride exposure, such as coastal or marine areas.
Chemical Composition of SS 202 Bar
The unique composition of 202 stainless steel makes it distinct from other stainless grades.
- Chromium (Cr): 17–19% – Provides corrosion resistance
- Manganese (Mn): 7.5–10% – Improves toughness and reduces cost by replacing nickel
- Nickel (Ni): 4–6% – Enhances ductility and strength
- Carbon (C): 0.15% max – Increases hardness but reduces corrosion resistance
- Nitrogen (N): 0.25% max – Boosts strength
- Iron (Fe): Balance – Base metal
This composition ensures moderate corrosion resistance, high toughness, and strength, making it suitable for both indoor and outdoor uses.
Key Properties of 202 Stainless Steel Bar
202 stainless steel bars offer a range of mechanical and physical properties that make them versatile:
- High Strength & Toughness – Can withstand heavy loads in construction and fabrication.
- Moderate Corrosion Resistance – Resists rusting in normal conditions but less resistant than 304.
- Good Weldability & Formability – Easily fabricated into different shapes.
- Cost-Effective – More affordable than nickel-rich stainless steels.
- Magnetism – Non-magnetic in annealed condition but becomes slightly magnetic after cold working.
- Density: 7.80 g/cm³
- Tensile Strength: Approx. 515 MPa
- Yield Strength: Approx. 275 MPa
- Elongation: 40%
Available Forms of 202 Stainless Steel Bars
202 SS bars are produced in multiple forms to meet industrial needs:
- 202 Stainless Steel Round Bar – For shafts, rods, and fasteners
- 202 Stainless Steel Flat Bar – Used in construction, structural supports, and furniture
- 202 Stainless Steel Hex Bar – Suitable for machining and engineering applications
- 202 Stainless Steel Square Bar – Used in grills, railings, and decorative work
Applications of 202 Stainless Steel Bar
Thanks to its strength and affordability, SS 202 bars are widely used in:
- Construction Industry – Structural supports, beams, and frames
- Automobile Sector – Engine parts, decorative trims, and exhaust components
- Furniture & Interior – Frames, grills, railings, and modular furniture
- Kitchenware & Appliances – Sinks, utensils, racks, and counters
- Industrial Machinery – Shafts, fasteners, and machine components
- General Fabrication – Gates, doors, windows, and architectural applications
Difference Between 202 and 304 Stainless Steel Bar
While both belong to the austenitic stainless steel family, there are significant differences:
| Feature | 202 Stainless Steel Bar | 304 Stainless Steel Bar |
|---|---|---|
| Nickel Content | 4–6% | 8–10.5% |
| Manganese Content | 7.5–10% | 2% max |
| Corrosion Resistance | Moderate | Excellent |
| Strength | High | High |
| Magnetic Behavior | Slightly magnetic after working | Non-magnetic |
| Price | More economical | More expensive |
| Best Uses | Furniture, construction, interiors | Marine, food processing, chemical industry |
👉 In simple terms: 202 is budget-friendly and strong, while 304 is premium with better corrosion resistance.
202 Stainless Steel Bar Price in India
The price of 202 stainless steel bar per kg in India typically ranges from ₹110 – ₹160, depending on:
- Size and thickness
- Shape (round, flat, hex, square)
- Surface finish (bright, black, polished)
- Market demand and supplier pricing
📌 Bulk industrial orders may get additional discounts. Compared to 304 stainless steel bars, which cost ₹190 – ₹250 per kg, the 202 grade is a cost-saving option.
Advantages of Choosing 202 Stainless Steel Bar
- Lower cost compared to 304 and 316
- High mechanical strength for structural applications
- Readily available in Indian markets
- Suitable for fabrication and decorative projects
- Good alternative for indoor and mild outdoor use
Limitations of 202 Stainless Steel Bar
- Lower corrosion resistance in marine or acidic environments
- Not suitable for chemical processing industries
- Higher carbon content makes it slightly less corrosion-resistant than 304
Conclusion
202 Stainless Steel Bar is a versatile, affordable, and durable material that meets the needs of industries ranging from construction and furniture to automotive and general engineering. While it does not provide the same level of corrosion resistance as 304, its lower cost and excellent strength make it a preferred choice in India where budget and performance balance is essential.
For businesses and industries seeking quality stainless steel bars at competitive prices, SS 202 is one of the best options available in the market today.
202 Stainless Steel Bar is a versatile, affordable, and durable material that meets the needs of industries ranging from construction and furniture to automotive and general engineering. While it does not provide the same level of corrosion resistance as 304, its lower cost and excellent strength make it a preferred choice in India where budget and performance balance is essential.
For businesses and industries seeking quality stainless steel bars at competitive prices, SS 202 is one of the best options available in the market today.
