What kind of stainless steel is good for water bottles ?

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Based on the industry standards and material performance analysis in the search results, the materials suitable for making stainless steel water bottles need to meet core requirements such as food safety and corrosion resistance.

I. Recommended Materials and Applicable Scenarios

304 stainless steel (SUS304/06Cr19Ni10)

Performance: Contains 18% chromium +8% nickel, resistant to daily acid and alkali corrosion, complies with food-grade standards (GB 4806.9), and can safely hold hot water, tea, coffee and other beverages.

Applicable scenarios: Daily drinking water, office or home use, with relatively high cost performance.

Note: It is not recommended to store acidic liquids (such as lemon juice and carbonated beverages) for a long time, as metal ions may be slightly precipitated.

316/316L stainless steel (SUS316/022Cr17Ni12Mo2)

Performance: By adding 2% molybdenum on the basis of 304, the corrosion resistance is enhanced, especially against chloride ions (such as salt water and sweat) and strong acid environments, meeting medical-grade standards.

Applicable scenarios: baby and maternal products, acidic beverages (fruit juice, sports drinks), coastal high salt spray environments.

Difference: 316L is a low-carbon version (carbon content ≤0.03%), with more corrosion-resistant welding parts, making it suitable for infant and toddler products.

Ii. Core Implementation Standards

When making a purchase, please recognize the following standards:

Food safety standard: GB 4806.9-2023 "Metal Materials and Articles for Food Contact", ensuring that the migration amount of heavy metals meets the standards (such as lead ≤0.01%, arsenic ≤0.002%).

Product performance standard: GB/T 29606-2013 "Stainless Steel Vacuum Cup" or GB/T 40355-2021 "Stainless Steel Vacuum Insulated Container", standardizing indicators such as insulation and sealing performance.

Iii. Purchasing Tips

Look at the steel stamp marking

The bottom of the inner tank should have the words "SUS304" or "SUS316" laser-engraved. Spray-painted marks are prone to counterfeiting.

Be cautious of the situation where "only 316 is marked at the bottom but 304 is used for the cup wall". Check the product label to confirm the overall material.

Check the implementation standards

The packaging or instructions should clearly indicate GB 4806.9 or GB/T 29606-2013 to avoid unstandardized "three-no" products.

Test the details of the function

Sealing performance: When filled with hot water and shaken upside down, if there is any leakage, the material of the rubber ring is poor (it may contain plasticizers).

Weld seam process: It is preferred that the inner wall is integrally formed without seams to reduce the risk of dirt accumulation.

Price reference

The market price of 304 material insulated cups is about 50 yuan or more, while 316 material ones are usually twice as expensive. Products priced at 9.9 yuan are mostly made of inferior steel.

Iv. Usage and Maintenance Suggestions

Avoid holding: strongly acidic beverages (such as lemon juice), traditional Chinese medicine soups, and high-salt liquids to prevent corrosion.

Cleaning method: Use a soft cloth and neutral detergent. Do not use steel wool balls. Remove scale regularly with citric acid or white vinegar.

Replacement timing: It needs to be replaced when rust spots appear or when black oxide is frequently rubbed off (the protective film is damaged).

V. Materials that require lightning protection

201 stainless steel: It has a high manganese content (5-7%), and may precipitate heavy metals over long-term use, making it prone to rust. It is commonly found in low-quality and low-priced products.

Unmarked products: They may be refurbished from recycled materials and pose safety risks.

Summary

304 stainless steel is the first choice for daily drinking water, as it is cost-effective and safe. If it is needed to hold acidic beverages or for use by mothers and babies, 316/316L stainless steel is recommended, as it has stronger corrosion resistance. When making a purchase, strictly check the steel seal marking and the execution standards to avoid low-price traps. Also, pay attention to correct use and maintenance to extend the lifespan of the water bottle.

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Zhishang Steel has always been a pioneer in custom steel and special supplies, and has been recognized for its efforts in enhancing work efficiency and product quality. In addition to ISO9001:2015 certification, we also adhere to strict quality policies and proprietary procedures. If you have any questions, please contact us to provide the best type of product solution for your pre-painted, coil coating metal process, we will closely support after-sales service to ensure that your subsequent problems can be solved in a timely manner, if you have any questions, please send email to info@zhishangsteel.com, we look forward to serving you.

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