303 VS 304 stainless steel: what's the difference?

Composition differences:
303 sulfur-containing (≥ 0.15%) improves machinability but reduces corrosion resistance; 304 stainless steel contains 18% chromium and 8% nickel, with high purity and stronger corrosion resistance.

Performance comparison:
303 stainless steel has excellent machining performance (high turning efficiency) and obvious weak magnetism; 304 steel has strong corrosion resistance (acid alkali/chloride resistance), good weldability, and high long-term stability.

Application scenarios:
303 steel is suitable for automatic lathe parts (bolts, gears); 304 stainless steel is used for food equipment, medical devices, and corrosive environments, with a longer lifespan.