RVS A2 versus RVS A4: What are the differences?
RVS stands for Stainless Steel, a widely used material due to its corrosion-resistant properties. Stainless steel is available in various grades, including A2 and A4. The main difference between A2 and A4 stainless steel lies in the composition and the alloying elements added to the steel.
A2 stainless steel , also known as AISI 304, is a common stainless steel grade. It consists primarily of iron, chromium (18%), and nickel (8%). A2 stainless steel is suitable for use in mild environments and has good corrosion resistance, particularly against atmospheric conditions and non-oxidizing acids.
A4 stainless steel , also known as AISI 316, is a higher-quality stainless steel grade with additional alloying elements. Besides iron and chromium, A4 stainless steel also contains nickel (10-14%) and molybdenum (2-3%). These additional alloying elements offer improved corrosion resistance, especially in more aggressive environments such as seawater or when exposed to chloride ions. A4 stainless steel is therefore suitable for applications requiring higher corrosion resistance.
The main difference between A2 and A4 stainless steel lies in their composition and the resulting corrosion resistance. A2 stainless steel is suitable for general use in mild environments, while A4 stainless steel offers better protection in corrosive environments, such as seawater. The choice between A2 and A4 depends on the specific application and the expected environmental conditions.