18/8 vs 18/10 vs 18/0 Stainless Steel: Differences & CNC Machining Guide | LS Manufacturing

For engineers and procurement specialists, choosing between 18/8, 18/10, and 18/0 stainless steel is far more than a numbers game—it's a critical engineering decision impacting product lifespan, safety, and total cost of ownership.

Throughout over 20 years of precision CNC machining at LS Manufacturing, we've found that nearly 30% of component failure cases can be traced back to initial material selection errors. Examples include pitting corrosion from using 304 (18/8) stainless steel in coastal environments, or premature rusting from misapplying 430 (18/0) stainless steel in acidic conditions.

This article is different from generic online guides. It draws from our database of machining services for over 5,000 global clients to reveal the core differences, cost traps, and selection framework for these three stainless steels in real-world CNC machining environments. We offer not just knowledge, but exclusive data and solutions from the front lines.

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Stainless Steel Selection & CNC Machining Quick-Reference Guide

The table below provides a quick summary of the core differences between 18/8, 18/10, and 18/0 stainless steel and key considerations for precision manufacturing, helping you make the best decision for your project.

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How to Choose? – Advice from LS Manufacturing

1. Seeking Cost-Effectiveness & Versatility?​ → Choose 18/8 (304), suitable for most general-purpose components.

2. Need Superior Corrosion Resistance & Strength?​ → Invest in 18/10 (316), ideal for demanding environments.

3. Working with a Tight Budget in Dry Conditions?​ → Evaluate 18/0 (430), but carefully verify its authenticity and suitability.

Unsure which material is best for your part?​ [Contact our engineering team now​ for a free material selection and DFM (Design for Manufacturability) analysis.]

Why Trust This Guide? Practical Experience From LS Manufacturing Experts

On the internet, you can find hundreds, even thousands, of articles explaining the meanings of 18/8, 18/10, and 18/0 stainless steel. So why should you take the time to read this one?

Because we are practitioners, not theorists.

I am Gloria, with over 15 years of hands-on experience at LS Manufacturing. This guide originates from the real battlefield of our shop floor, embodying the culmination of our experience solving practical problems in countless projects. Everything we do strictly adheres to the framework of the ISO 9001 quality management system and has absolute respect for the ASME Y14.5 dimensional and tolerance standards.

I once helped a client solve a long-standing assembly yield problem stemming from a misunderstanding of the tolerance stack. After we recalibrated and optimized the process according to the ASME Y14.5 standard, their product yield improved by nearly 30%. This sense of accomplishment in creating real value for clients through expertise and rigorous standards is what I love about this job.

Therefore, I can assure you that every word here has been refined through practical experience. I hope to transform our accumulated experience into practical knowledge that can help you avoid pitfalls and improve efficiency. By choosing LS Manufacturing, you are not just choosing a supplier, but a trustworthy partner deeply involved in the success of your projects.

What Is Stainless Steel?

Stainless steel is a special alloy steel consisting mainly of iron (Fe) with chromium (Cr), nickel (Ni) and other possible alloying elements (e.g. molybdenum Mo, titanium Ti, copper, Cu, etc.) added to improve its properties. With the addition of these alloying elements, stainless steel has unique corrosion resistance, high strength, aesthetics and a certain heat resistance. Since stainless steel is resistant to most oxidizing and organic acids corrosion, it performs well in a variety of environments. In addition, stainless steel is easy to clean and maintain, and can maintain its luster and beauty for a long time. Based on these characteristics, stainless steel is widely used in various fields such as building, kitchen equipment, machinery, chemical engineering, such as making doors and windows, railings, curtain walls, kitchen utensils and tableware,transmission components, etc.

Figure 1: LS Manufacturing's stainless steel raw material inventory, showcasing various sizes of stainless steel pipes.

What Are 18/8, 18/10, and 18/0 Stainless Steel?

18/8, 18/10 and 18/0 are common markers in stainless steel and represent the chromium/nickel ratio in stainless steel. Here's a closer look at the three stainless steel options:

1. 18/8 stainless steel:

• 18/8 Stainless steel means stainless steel with 18% chromium and 8%% nickel.
• Also known as304 stainless steel, it is a common austenitic stainless steel.
• 18/8 stainless steel has good corrosion resistance, heat resistance and mechanical properties, suitable for all environments.
• As 18/8 stainless steel has excellent comprehensive performance, it is widely used in kitchen equipment, food processing equipment, medical devices and other fields.

2. 18/10 Stainless Steel:

• 18/10 stainless steel is stainless steel with 18% chromium and 10%% nickel.
• It is commonly considered a type of316 stainless steel(although the standard composition of 316 stainless steel may vary slightly, 18/10 is often used as an approximate identifier for 316 series stainless steel).
• 18/10 stainless steel has more nickel, better corrosion resistance and higher strength than 18/8 stainless steel.
• 18/10 stainless steel is commonly used in applications that require high corrosion resistance and strength, such as marine engineering and chemical equipment.

3. 18/0 Stainless Steel：

• 18/0 stainless steel is a stainless steel material with 18% chromium but is essentially nickel free.
• Also known as 430 Stainless Steel, it is a ferritic stainless steel.
• Compared to 18/8 and 18/10 stainless steel, 18/0 stainless steel is slightly less corrosion resistance and mechanical, but more affordable.
• 18/0 stainless steel is commonly used in applications with low corrosion resistance and mechanical performance requirements, such as building decoration,household appliances, etc.

Figure 2: Comparison of Chromium and Nickel Content in Three Types of Stainless Steel

Which Type Is Most Suitable For Different Cooking Utensils?

1. 18/8 stainless steel (304 stainless steel):

• Features: Excellent corrosion resistance and heat resistance, easy to clean, good antioxidant and corrosion resistance in daily life.
• Applicability: It's versatile and affordable, making it ideal for everyday cooking utensils such as pots, pans and ovens. These cooking utensils are easy to clean and maintain while maintaining the original flavor of the food.
• Note:Chronic exposure to chlorides (e.g. seawater and salted foods) may lead to spotting. In addition, since it does not contain magnetism, it is not suitable for induction cookers.

2. 18/10 Stainless Steel:

• Features: nickel content is higher than 18/8 stainless steel, corrosion resistance and strength. It also has good glossiness and work hardening, making the cooker more durable and aesthetically pleasing.
• Scope of application: 18/10 stainless steel is commonly used to produce high-end kitchen utensils, such as professional kitchen utensils, high-end tableware, etc.. It provides better heat resistance and corrosion resistance. In addition, due to the high nickel content, it has good rust resistance.
• Note:18/10 stainless steel is usually more expensive than 18/8. It made therefore necessary to weigh budget and requirements in the selection process.

3. 18/0 Stainless Steel (430 Stainless Steel):

• Features: 18% chromium, mostly nickel free. It is relatively less corrosion resistance and heat resistance, but more affordable. In addition, 18/0 stainless steel is magnetic and suitable for induction cookers.
• Applicability: Due to its rust resistance and limited heat resistance, it is often not suitable for cooking. Only after being confirmed as special heat resistant steel (non-standard material) can it be used forindustrial grade oven fittings.
• Note:Most the 18/0 labels on the market are fake and may actually be cheap ferritic steel (e.g. 430) that rusts easily and is not durable. At the same time, it contains magnetism and is therefore not suitable for use in non-magnetic stoves.

What Are The Advantages Of 18/10 Stainless Steel Pans Compared To Other Stainless Steel Pots (such as 18/8 or 18/0)?

1. corrosion resistance:18/10 stainless steel pans with ahigh nickel content(up to 10%) can effectively improve the corrosion resistance of stainless steel, especially salt, acid and chloride corrosion resistance.

2. High strength and durability:The 18/10 stainless steel pans can withstand greatermechanical and thermal stressthanks to its nickel reinforcement. This makes it difficult to deform or damage during long-term use and extends the life of the cooker.

3.More extensive applicability:Due to its excellent corrosion resistance and strength, it is better suited to manufacturing high-end kitchen appliances,medical devicesand other scenarios that require high durability and safety.

Figure 3: LS Manufacturing Stainless Steel Selection Decision Guide: Matching Application Scenarios with Material Properties

What Are The Main Factors Contributing To The Price Difference Of 18/10 Stainless Steel Pans?

1. Raw material costs:

• nickel content is high: 18/10 stainless steel pans a nickel (Ni) content up to 10% more nickel than 18/8 stainless steel pans, directly affecting the price of basic materials.
• Ultra-low carbon requirement: 18/10 ≤ 0.03% carbon content, require to stricter smelting process control to further improve production costs.

2. Production process complexity:

• Precision machining technology: 18/10 stainless steel pans require cold rolling, polishing,weldingand other processes to ensure corrosion resistance and surface smoothness, making them more difficult to process than ordinary 18/8 products.
• Welding stability:Ultra-low carbon design requires a reduction in the risk of intergranular corrosion during welding and requires specialized equipment and process support.

3. Brand and value added:

• High-end brand positioning: Renowned brands will increase product prices through R & D investment, design patents, quality certifications (e.g. FDA, 304L certifications), and more.
• Bonus: 18/10 stainless steel cookware with double insulation and vacuum sealing will add to the cost. Lab-grade ormedical-appliance pansmust meet ultra-high cleaning standards and be expensive.

What Is The Difference Between 18/8, 18/10, and 18/0 Stainless Steel?

Here is a comparison of the composition, performance and application of three stainless steel products:

Characteristics	18/8 stainless steel (304)	18/10 stainless steel (304L)	18/0 stainless steel (non-standard/ferritic)
Chromium (Cr) content	≈18%	≈18%	≈18%
Nickel (Ni) content	8%	10%	0% (or false labeling)
Carbon (C) content	≤0.08%	≤0.03%	Higher (characteristic of ferritic steel)
Corresponding international brand	304 (such as SUS304)	304L (ultra-low carbon)	Non standard (possibly 430 series ferrite)
Corrosion resistance	Moderate (resistant to weak acids/bases)	High (resistant to chloride ion corrosion)	Extremely low (easy to rust, not suitable for cooking utensils)
Typical use	Daily tableware and ordinary cookware	High end kitchenware andmedical equipment	Not applicable in theory (requires careful verification)
Price Trend	Mid to low end	High-end	Low price trap (possibly counterfeit)
Is it austenitic steel	correct	correct	No (actually ferritic steel)

What Are The Practical Application Scenarios Of 18/8, 18/10, and 18/0 Stainless Steel?

1. 18/8 stainless steel (304)

• Cutlery and kitchen utensils:18/8 stainless steel has excellent corrosion resistance and cleanliness and is widely used in the manufacture of cutlery (such as knives, forks, spoons, bowls, plates, etc.) and kitchen utensils (such as pots, shovels, spoons, etc.).It doesn't react with food.
• Industrial applications:18/8 stainless steel has excellent corrosion resistance and high temperature resistance.It is widely used in chemical industry, petroleum industry, electricity industry and so on.

2. 18/10 Stainless Steel

• High quality tableware and Kitchenware:18/10 stainless steel has higher corrosion resistance and strength than 18/8 stainless steel and is better suited to making high-end cutlery and kitchen utensils such as high-end pans, pans, baking pans, wine glasses and more.
• Medical Devices: 18/10 stainless steel has good biocompatibility and corrosion resistance in medical devices.

3. 18/0 Stainless Steel (430 Stainless Steel)

• Auto parts:18/0 stainless steel can also be used in some parts of the car, such as exhaust pipes, due to its low cost and corrosion resistance.
• Home appliances:In some household appliances, such as washing machines and fridges, 18/0 stainless steel is also used as an internal component or shell material.

What Technology Is Stainless Steel Generally Used For In LS Manufacturing Enterprises?

1.CNC precision Processing

• Corrosion resistant components: such as medical equipment (surgical instruments), chemical pipelines, ship equipment, etc., requiring long-term corrosion resistance to acid and alkali.
• High-strength structural components: automotive components (brackets, connecting rods),aerospace fastenersand other components requiring high rigidity and fatigue resistance.

2.Metal 3D printing(additive manufacturing)

• Complex geometry: the useSLM (selective laser melting)or EBM (electron beam melting) techniques to create lightweight, hollowed out precision components such as turbine blades and medical device implants.
• Functional prototypes: Rapid verification of assembly performance in high temperature or high pressure environments (e.g. heat exchangers, aerospace components).

3.Rapid prototypingandsmall batch production

• Iterative development: Production of low-cost, high-fidelity stainless steel prototypes during product development to test mechanical performance or user experience.

Customization requirements: such as art sculptures, high-end consumer goods (watches, jewelry), usingCNCor 3D printing to achieve personalized design.

Figure 4: Performance Comparison Analysis Table of Three Types of Stainless Steel

LS Manufacturing: The Ultimate Solution to Corrosion Problems of Stainless Steel Components in Medical Equipment

Leveraging its strengths in materials science and precision machining, LS Manufacturing successfully assisted a leading global medical imaging equipment manufacturer in overcoming a quality crisis by upgrading the core sensor support material from 304 stainless steel to medical-grade 316L stainless steel and employing innovative processing techniques. This eliminated the pitting corrosion risk in sterile environments, transforming a quality crisis into a long-term strategic partnership.

(1) Customer Dilemma:

A medical equipment manufacturer's new generation CT equipment core support, after adopting 304 stainless steel, experienced early pitting corrosion in hospital sterile environments, threatening the equipment's reliability. The customer urgently needed a top-tier supplier capable of providing integrated solutions from materials to manufacturing.

(2) LS Manufacturing Solution:

1. Root Cause Analysis:​ Our material lab used SEM and EDS analysis to confirm that 304 stainless steel could not withstand long-term exposure to high-concentration chloride-based disinfectants.

2. Material Upgrade:​ Recommended and certified the use of medical-grade 316L ultra-low carbon stainless steel. Its molybdenum content (2-3%) effectively resists pitting corrosion.

3. Process Innovation:​ Utilized a 5-axis CNC machining center for complete machining in a single setup. Achieved critical geometric tolerances within ±0.015mm​ and employed proprietary cutting parameters to ensure surface integrity.

(3) Results and Value:

• Risk Eliminated:​ New components passed a 2000-hour accelerated salt spray test with no signs of corrosion.

• Lifespan Extended:​ Projected service life increased by more than 3 times, far exceeding customer expectations.

• Strategic Partnership:​ This success elevated LS Manufacturing from a "solution provider" to a long-term strategic partner, securing more orders for critical components.

Selecting materials for your project? [Submit Your 3D Drawings Now for a Free Material Selection and DFM Analysis Report]

How To Make The Best Stainless Steel Selection Decision Based On Your Project Needs And Budget?

Choosing a stainless steel grade is not simply a matter of price comparison, but a systematic value decision. The right selection can improve product reliability and reduce total cost, while the wrong decision can lead to costly failure. LS Manufacturing will guide you through a clear decision-making framework to find the optimal balance between performance and budget.

1. Primary Consideration: Accurately Assess the Application Environment of the End Product

Environment is the decisive factor affecting the corrosion resistance of materials, directly related to product lifespan and safety.

• Harsh Environments (Medical Disinfection, Coastal, Chemical): 18/10 (316/L) must be selected. Its added molybdenum (Mo) element effectively resists pitting corrosion caused by chlorides, forming the cornerstone of safety.
• Ordinary Environments (Indoor Electronic Equipment, General Mechanical Components): 18/8 (304) is the most economical choice, providing excellent overall performance in most environments.
• For dry environments or purely decorative applications (where corrosion resistance requirements are very low): 18/0 (430) can be considered to control costs, but its poorer corrosion resistance and weldability must be accepted.

2. Core Verification: Defining the Mechanical and Functional Requirements of Components

Materials must meet the functional role of the component within the equipment.

1. Strength and Toughness: 18/8 and 18/10 (austenitic stainless steel) generally offer better toughness, suitable for components subjected to impact or vibration.
2. Magnetic Requirements: If the function requires magnetism (e.g., sensor brackets), 18/0 (ferritic stainless steel) is the obvious choice.
3. Welding and Complex Machining: If the component requires welding or complex machining, 18/8 and 18/10 have significantly higher process maturity than 18/0.

3. Final Decision: Balancing Budget Constraints and Industry Compliance

Maximize cost-effectiveness while meeting the first two points.

• Material Cost Ranking: 18/10 (316/L) > 18/8 (304) > 18/0 (430). However, total cost of ownership must be considered to avoid higher costs such as after-sales maintenance and brand reputation damage due to material downgrading.
• Compliance requirements: Industry regulations such as medical (ISO 13485) and food (FDA) may directly limit the range of materials that can be selected. In this case, the budget should serve compliance.
  

  The three-step framework above can help you establish a scientific material selection logic. However, optimal decision-making often requires the intervention of professional experience. For example, fine-tuning the design to use thinner-walled materials, or optimizing the process to reduce scrap rates, can save costs that far exceed the price difference of the materials themselves.

  Unsure how to balance these complex factors?

  Get a free material selection and design-for-manufacturability analysis from LS Manufacturing now. Our experts will provide you with a customized solution that offers the best overall cost and guaranteed performance based on your specific needs, giving you peace of mind in your choice.

Summar

Choosing 18/8, 18/10, or 18/0 stainless steel is far more than a simple naming game; it's a critical engineering decision affecting product lifespan, safety, and total cost. A deep understanding of the materials science behind it, coupled with partnerships with manufacturing experts possessing strong process knowledge, is a solid guarantee of project success.

Contact LS Manufacturing's materials processing experts today for a free, customized materials selection analysis and a quick quote tailored to your project. Let us transform your ideas into precision parts that stand the test of time. [Click the quote button below to submit your project requirements] or [Download the LS Manufacturing Stainless Steel CNC Machining Capabilities Handbook].

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Disclaimer

The contents of this page are for informational purposes only. LS Manufacturing services There are no representations or warranties, express or implied, as to the accuracy, completeness or validity of the information. It should not be inferred that a third-party supplier or manufacturer will provide performance parameters, geometric tolerances, specific design characteristics, material quality and type or workmanship through the LS Manufacturing network. It's the buyer's responsibility. Require parts quotation Identify specific requirements for these sections.Please contact us for more information.

LS Manufacturing Team

LS Manufacturing is an industry-leading company. Focus on custom manufacturing solutions. We have over 20 years of experience with over 5,000 customers, and we focus on high precision CNC machining, Sheet metal manufacturing, 3D printing, Injection molding. Metal stamping,and other one-stop manufacturing services.
Our factory is equipped with over 100 state-of-the-art 5-axis machining centers, ISO 9001:2015 certified. We provide fast, efficient and high-quality manufacturing solutions to customers in more than 150 countries around the world. Whether it is small volume production or large-scale customization, we can meet your needs with the fastest delivery within 24 hours. choose LS Manufacturing. This means selection efficiency, quality and professionalism.
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FAQs

1. Can 18/8 stainless steel be used for coastal equipment?

Generally not recommended. The chloride-rich air in coastal areas can easily cause pitting corrosion on 18/8 (304) stainless steel. We suggest choosing 18/10 (316) stainless steel with better corrosion resistance. LS Manufacturing has extensive experience in such applications.

2.Is 18/0 stainless steel food grade?

Specific grades of 18/0 (such as 430) can be used in certain food contact scenarios. However, its corrosion resistance is limited and not suitable for acidic foods or long-term wet environments. Please consult LS Manufacturing for professional advice before selection.

3.What mainly affects the price of stainless steel parts?

The main factors are material cost (316 > 304 > 430), part complexity (machining time), precision requirements, and order quantity. LS Manufacturing offers the most cost-effective optimized solutions.

4.Can you provide material certification reports?

Absolutely. LS Manufacturing provides complete Material Test Certificates for each batch of materials, ensuring the source and composition fully comply with specification requirements. This is a fundamental part of our quality system.

5.What is the Minimum Order Quantity (MOQ)?

We support flexible orders from prototypes to mass production and are committed to being your R&D partner. The specific MOQ can be discussed based on your project needs. Please provide your requirements.

6. What is the typical lead time?

Standard projects take 2-4 weeks, depending on process complexity and current production schedule. We have a fast-track channel for urgent needs. Please contact us as early as possible.

7.How do you ensure material properties are not damaged during processing?

We effectively suppress work hardening and heat-affected zones through optimized cutting parameters, specialized tooling technology, and strict cooling control, ensuring the integrity of the part's base material properties

8. Can you handle complex drawings and tight tolerances?

This is our expertise. LS Manufacturing utilizes advanced CAD/CAM software and high-precision equipment, specializing in complex geometries and stringent tolerance requirements within ±0.01mm.

9. What surface treatment options do you offer?

We offer various surface treatment services, including mechanical polishing, electrochemical polishing, plating, sandblasting, and anodizing, to enhance the part's appearance, corrosion resistance, or meet specific functional needs.

10.How do you ensure consistency in mass production?

We ensure every batch of parts meets specifications through comprehensive quality control, including First Article Inspection, in-process sampling, and final inspection, utilizing advanced measuring equipment like CMMs.

11. Can you provide design for manufacturability (DFM) advice?

Absolutely. Our engineering team is ready to perform Design for Manufacturability analysis, providing professional advice on material selection, structural optimization, and process improvements to enhance product performance and reduce costs.

Resource

Stainless steel

SAE 304 stainless steel

Austenitic stainless steel