How to identify hip flask stainless steel material

Jinsong Hip flask made co.,ltd is a China hip flask factory that produces hip flasks and drinkware items and personalized production.

In the market, the suppliers produce hip flasks or drinkware using materials 201 stainless steel and 304 stainless steel (18/8 stainless steel).

But from the surface, you cannot identify stainless steel grade by eyes directly. The only positive way to determine the grade of stainless steel is by chemical analysis using spectrographic.

You can test the grade of stainless steel with a chemical solution, mainly by detecting the nickel content inside the metal. Drop the chemical solution on the stainless steel. If the surface turns red  immediately, it means it is 201 stainless steel; if the stainless steel surface does not change color or just has a bit of gray, then it means it is 304 stainless steel.

304 stainless steel is a common and widely used type of austenitic stainless steel. It has high resistance to corrosion and oxidation, good drawability and weldability, and low yield strength and high elongation. It is widely used as a raw material for producing products that contact food.

201 stainless steel is another type of austenitic stainless steel that has a lower nickel content than 304 stainless steel. And it is much cheaper than 304 stainless steel. It has similar properties such as corrosion resistance, ductility, and hardness. However, it is less resistant to chemical environments and rust than 304 stainless steel. 

201 stainless steel cannot be used to produce hip flasks for liquor; it is not safe as 304 stainless steel. It may also affect the taste or quality of alcohol stored inside and also change liquor color; it is not good for health. So when you buy hip flask or drinkware production, you must make sure that they use 304 stainless steel.