Grades of Steel
for Grills
It’s essential to consider the steel grade for your new BBQ grill if you want to find the best value for money regarding performance and durability.
Each type of steel grade has a different level of resistance to heat, corrosion, and wear, having a knock-on effect on cooking performance and longevity.
High-grade steel material BBQ grill
High-grade steel
One example is low-grade steel, which typically has a shorter lifespan due to its weakness against corrosion and rust over time. Higher grades of steel are more damage and corrosion-resistant, enabling a longer-lasting and better performance.
Low-grade steel
Elements to consider regarding steel grades:
Heat retention
Distribution levels.
Higher or Lower grade
There are many elements to consider regarding steel grades, including heat retention and distribution levels.
Unevenly cooked food
If a distribution level is inefficient and poor heat retention prevents the grill from establishing a consistent temperature, your food won’t be cooked as evenly or effectively. Of course, unevenly cooked food makes the BBQ experience much less enjoyable, so finding a grill with excellent quality heat retention is essential.
Choosing a high-standard steel grade will affect various elements of your BBQ grill, such as performance, value, and durability
In this guide, we’ll consider the pros and cons of different steel grades, providing essential information on each type to ensure you choose the grade best suited to your budget and needs.
Austenitic Steel
Austenitic steel is more commonly regarded as a type of stainless steel.
It comprises high levels of nickel, chromium, and various alloying elements.
Austenitic steel is recognized for being durable and resistant to high temperatures and corrosion, making it a dependable option for BBQ grills.
Austenitic steel comprises nickel, chromium, and various alloying elements.
Aside from its performance abilities, austenitic stainless steel is incredibly hygienic, making it more than suitable for food usage. Consumers can enjoy effortless cleaning and maintenance due to no bacteria retention, making food safety simple to prioritize.
Austenitic steel has various grades used for grills. Let’s take a look:
201 Stainless Steel
201 stainless steel is a variant of austenitic steel that contains low levels of chromium and nickel compared to other stainless steel grades, such as 304 and 316.
It’s often referred to as ‘manganese stainless steel’ due to its high manganese content, which further amplifies its durability and robustness as a material.
Iron, Fe:
72%
Chromium, Cr
16% – 18%
Manganese, Mn
5.50% – 7.50%
Nickel, Ni
3.50% – 5.50%
Silicon, Si
01%
Nitrogen, N
0.25%
Carbon, C
0.15%
Some notable properties of 201 stainless steel include:
01
Corrosion
resistance
201 stainless steel is reasonably resistant to rust and other forms of corrosion despite not being as corrosion-resistant as different grades of stainless steel.
02
High strength
and hardness
201 stainless steel provides increased strength and durability, making it a suitable option for those who need reliable and robust grills.
03
Affordable
201 is an affordable grade of stainless steel, providing a cost-effective option for those looking for high quality on a budget.
04
Quality
formability
This steel grade is suitable for various manufacturing processes due to its easy shaping and formation.
Advantages of using 201 stainless steels for BBQ grills
201 is one of the most affordable types of stainless steel, ensuring buyers on a budget have a high-quality, cost-effective option.
201 has a decent corrosion and rust resistance level for the price.
Various manufacturing processes are applicable for 201 due to its simple forming and shaping.
Users can get a lot out of 201 stainless steel due to its relatively hard and strong finish that provides durability.
Stainless steel grades such as 316 and 304 provide better corrosion resistance than 201, which unfortunately makes it less suitable for outdoor use, particularly in bad weather conditions.
High temperatures and corrosive materials can cause 201 stainless steel to discolor and develop a yellowish tint.
201 stainless steel is limited to lower grilling heat because it isn’t as heat resistant as other stainless steel grades.
201 stainless steel isn’t as high quality as other grades and its price reflects this.
Disadvantages of using 201 stainless steels for BBQ grills
304 Stainless Steel
One of the most common grades of austenitic stainless steel used for grills is 304 due to its incredibly high corrosion, oxidation resistance, and sublime durability.
It comprises 18-20% chromium, 8-10.5% nickel, and small levels of manganese, carbon, and silicon.
Iron, Fe:
67 – 71%
Chromium, Cr
18% – 20%
Nickel, Ni
8% – 10.50%
Manganese, Mn
02%
Silicon, Si
0.75%
Nitrogen, N
0.10%
Carbon, C
0.08%
Sulphur, S
0.03%
Key properties of 304 stainless steel include :
01
Heat and corrosion
resistance
Given its ability to withstand high temperatures and weather conditions, 304 stainless steel can be used with high heat and outdoors. Users don’t need to worry about warping or deforming, which is why this grade is suitable for many uses and purposes.
02
Durability
The strong and durable formation of 304 stainless steel prevents scratches and signs of wear and tear from showing, equating to long-lasting quality.
Advantages of using 304 stainless steel for BBQ grills
With high corrosion and rust resistance, 304 is an excellent option for outdoor cooking applications such as BBQ.
Users can use high temperatures when grilling with 304 stainless steel without worrying about the steel warping or deforming.
With a scratch-resistant finish, 304 provides a strong and durable grilling solution.
Due to the non-porous surface of this steel grade, users can enjoy effortless cleaning and maintenance while having peace of mind regarding hygiene and food preparation.
The polished, bright, shiny appearance of 304 stainless steel looks incredibly attractive. Its durability also keeps this sleek appearance shining for a long time.
As 304 stainless steel consists of such high-quality, it is more expensive than many other steel grades. This price tag makes it more exclusive and inaccessible to certain buyers.
The relatively heavy weight of this steel grade can make transportation more difficult.
If you’re looking for a steel grade that evenly distributes heat at low temperatures, you’d be better off with aluminum or cast iron.
Disadvantages of using 304 stainless steel for BBQ grills
Grillio 304 Stainless Steel Grills
Here at Grillio, we use 304 stainless steel for various grills due to its excellent quality and non-porous surface, making it suitable for a range of uses.
The Blaze Prelude LBM series comprises four commercial-quality 16-gauge 304 stainless steel tube burners. The 32-inch freestanding grill has an exceptional overall 56,000 BTUs of cooking power on the surface, providing users with an incredible grilling experience.
With 748 square inches of cooking space infiltrated with 8mm durable stainless steel cooking rods, you have a great deal of space for searing and grilling. The spacious grill size is paired with reliable flamethrower primary and secondary ignition, making it easier to reach soaring temperatures to cook up a storm.
Our Blaze Prelude LMB series provides stainless steel heat zone separators so that you can have multiple cuisines and cooking styles happening simultaneously for the most efficient approach to barbecuing.
Additionally, the removable warming rack provides a place to store food, keeping it warm while you finish grilling other parts of your succulent meal.
And, if you’re a beginner to grilling, this grill comes with a flame-stabilizing grid to prevent flare-ups. Enjoy easy cleaning with the full-width dip tray and stainless steel grill cart, which provides an efficient way to store all the accessories you need to throw the best BBQ.
As the Blaze Prelude is designed from 304, you can be sure of excellent quality, with a double-lined hood to protect the grill’s outer layer from heat discoloration, equating to better durability and aesthetically pleasing results.
Another stainless steel grill courtesy of Grillio is the Broil King Regal S420, which provides users with an innovative built-in gas grill and 695 square inches of grilling surface for the ultimate BBQ.
The large size of this grill is accompanied by four impactful burners that distribute heat evenly across the grill, ensuring users have an easy solution to cooking various cuts of meat simultaneously. This convenient approach is championed by the easy-open lid, which provides space for flipping food while ensuring the heat is locked in.
The Broil King Regal S420 is a built-in gas grill, so you don’t need to worry about charcoal and extensive cleaning. Instead, enjoy easy-to-clean 304 stainless steel and convenient gas grilling.
The American Outdoor Grill L-Series 30-Inch 3-Burner Gas Grill provides users with a simple solution to outdoor grilling, with 304 stainless steel delivering durability and high quality, with 30 inches of space to get down to grilling.
American Outdoor Grill L-Series 30-Inch 3-Burner Gas Grill
316/316L Stainless Steel/Marine-Grade Stainless Steel
Also referred to as marine-grade stainless steel, 316 stainless steel provides high corrosion resistance levels, making it perfect for use in extreme outdoor weather conditions. As a result of 316 stainless steel’s high resistance, it’s commonly used in environments such as seawater pumps, offshore oil rigs, and boat hardware.
316 is a variation of austenitic stainless steel, comprising higher levels of nickel, molybdenum, and chromium than other stainless steel grades commonly used for grills, such as 304.
Marine-grade stainless steel can be either 316 or 316L and there is a way to differentiate between the two. This difference is regarding the carbon content of the stainless steel, as 316L has less carbon than 316, making it more resistant to sensitization, a type of corrosion that occurs during welding that can adversely affect future corrosion resistance levels.
Iron, Fe:
BAL
Chromium, Cr
16% – 18%
Manganese, Mn
2.0%
Nickel, Ni
10% – 14%
Silicon, Si
0.75%
Nitrogen, N
0.1%
Carbon, C
0.08%(316) 0.030%(316L)
It’s important to note that 316 and 316L have many similarities, such as the quantities of nickel, molybdenum, and chromium, which provide great corrosion resistance.
Key properties of marine-grade stainless steel include the following:
01
Corrosion
resistance
Marine-grade stainless steel is ideal for saltwater environments and marine use due to its high resistance to corrosion, even in adverse conditions.
02
High strength
This grade of steel is suitable for heavy-duty applications as it’s more durable than many other grades of stainless steel.
03
Heat resistance
With the ability to resist high temperatures without deforming or warping, users can use marine-grade stainless steel in high-heat settings.
04
Low maintenance
This steel grade doesn’t require extensive cleaning or upkeep, providing consumers with an easy, low-maintenance option.
Marine-grade stainless steel is a top choice, offering numerous advantages.
With high corrosion resistance to various weather conditions and environments, you can get multiple uses out of marine-grade stainless steel without worrying about its quality subsiding.
Adverse weather conditions don’t affect the strength of this steel grade, providing an incredibly durable option for grill use.
High-heat grilling is suitable with marine-grade stainless steel because it can withstand high temperatures without its shape warping.
Users don’t need to pursue extensive cleaning or upkeep with this steel grade.
As the quality of marine-grade steel is of such a high standard, the price is extremely costly. Therefore, the expense of this steel grade is inaccessible to some buyers.
Marine-grade stainless steel provides excellent corrosion resistance and durability. However, this can be overkill for grill owners who don’t require high-performance levels and use their grills in a more practical sense.
While marine-grade stainless steel is excellent, it does have some drawbacks.
Grillio Marine-Grade Grills
The Blaze Premium LTE Marine Grade Built-In Gas Grill is a remarkable marine-grade steel grill. Delivering an immersive outdoor grilling experience with a 32-inch, four-burner built-in gas grill, add a touch of luxury to your next BBQ.
748 square inches of grilling space paired with 56,00 BTUs of cooking power provides a dependable, top-quality cooking experience. This makes the grill suitable for outdoor use with incredible marine-grade construction delivering heat retention at soaring temperatures.
This design goes the extra mile with an LED grill surface that ensures you can grill at night and during the day without any struggles.
Blaze Premium LTE Marine Grade Built-In Gas Grill
Blaze Premium LTE Marine Grade Gas Grill
Another marine-grade option is the Blaze Premium LTE Marine Grade Gas Grill, which has many similar features to the previous grill with an additional 316L stainless steel grill head. From being innovative with push-and-turn flamethrower ignition to having a removable warming rack for food storage, you can be confident that food cooked and prepared with this grill will remain warm until it’s ready to be served, with even heat distribution.
With an additional flame-taming grid to minimize overcooking and flare-ups, this grill is beginner friendly and provides a simple yet luxurious outdoor cooking experience. This grill also has a 316L stainless steel hood for heat discoloration protection, so you won’t need to worry about your grill’s longevity being short-lived.
Ferritic Stainless Steel
Another common type of stainless steel used for BBQ grills is ferritic.
Its main alloying elements include chromium and nickel, the latter of which is lower in content than austenitic stainless steel.
Ferritic stainless steel provides a mid-range option for BBQ grills because it is less expensive than austenitic stainless steel yet still offers good corrosion resistance in mild weather conditions.
However, it isn’t as durable as many stainless steel grades, making it prone to rusting and corrosion in harsh weather conditions. Regardless of the fact that this steel grade is less heat resistant, it’s a popular choice due to how cost-effective it is and its ability to withstand a range of environments and temperatures.
There are several grades of ferritic steel used for grills:
430 Stainless Steel
430 is a ferritic stainless steel variation containing chromium as its principal alloying component.
This steel grade is also magnetic with lower nickel levels than other stainless steel grades (like 304).
Iron, Fe:
85 – 87%
Chromium, Cr
16% – 18%
Manganese, Mn
01%
Nickel, Ni
0.75%
Silicon, Si
01%
Nitrogen, N
0.04%
Carbon, C
0.12%
Key properties of 430 stainless steel include:
01
Corrosion
resistance
With good corrosion and rust resistance, 430 is a dependable option for mild-weather environments but isn’t as corrosion-resistant as other options.
02
High temperature
resistance
430 stainless steel can withstand high temperatures with a highly heat-resistant finish that doesn’t lose strength when exposed.
03
Magnetic
properties
The magnetic properties of 430 are a huge selling point for some as they can provide more application opportunities.
04
Formability
Manufacturers can easily form and shape this steel grade using various processes.
Advantages of using 430 stainless steel for BBQ grills
This grade of steel has high levels of chromium that enable formidable resistance to oxidation at moderate temperatures and corrosion. This reduces the likelihood of rusting and discoloration, even when exposed to outdoor elements.
430 is more affordable than other stainless steel grades, perfect for BBQ grill manufacturers on a budget.
As 430 is magnetic, it’s easier to work with during manufacturing.
With a lower maximum operating temperature than other stainless steel grades, 403 isn’t as suitable for high-temperature applications.
Despite being highly corrosion resistant, this stainless steel grade is more prone to surface scratches and damage than other steel grades.
430 is prone to denting and damage over time, with other stainless steel grades providing better, more long-lasting durability.
Disadvantages of using 430 stainless steel for BBQ grills
Grillio 430 Stainless Steel Grills
The Cal Flame G Series 40-Inch 5-Burner Built-In Gas Grill uses 430 stainless steel, with a spacious design that provides 1000 square inches of cooking surface for an incredible barbecuing experience.
Consisting of 4 stainless V-shaped steel cooking grates, this grill provides a practical approach that prevents small pieces of food from falling through the grates. The ignition system is sealed for maximum protection, with a flame tamer to reduce flare-ups and evenly distribute heat.
When all four burners operate, the grill delivers 75,000 BTUs evenly across your grilling area, ensuring each cut of meat is cooked evenly. This model also has an impressive Sear Zone Burner accessory for extra grilling measures and a warm rack to keep food piping hot until it’s ready to be served.
Cal Flame G Series 40-Inch 5-Burner Built-In Gas Grill
The Cal Flame G Series Charcoal 32-Inch Built-In Charcoal Grill has similar features to the Cal Flame Gas grill, such as V-shaped cooking grates, but provides the perfect grilling option for anyone who enjoys traditional BBQs, with a tray fillable with charcoal briquettes, wood chips, or wood pellets for that classic smoky flavor we all know and love. The tray has an easily adjustable height to ensure you can get a good level of searing while remaining fully in control.
Cal Flame G Series Charcoal 32-Inch Built-In Charcoal Grill
443 Stainless Steel
Another ferritic stainless steel variation is 443, which contains 17-19% chromium and 1-2% molybdenum, along with small quantities of nickel, silicon, and manganese.
It’s a popular choice for constructing BBQ grills due to its high corrosion and heat resistance.
Iron, Fe:
75%
Chromium, Cr
18% – 23%
Nickel, Ni
0% – 0.50%
Manganese, Mn
0.5 – 1.0%
Silicon, Si
0.75 – 1.50%
Molybdenum, Mo
0.5 – 1.0%
Carbon, C
0.04 – 0.20%
Sulphur, S
0.003 – 0.005%
Notable properties of 443 stainless steel are as follows:
01
Corrosion
resistance
Due to 443 stainless steel’s excellent corrosion resistance, it’s a great choice for outdoor cooking applications.
02
High resistance
443 can cope with high temperatures without deforming or warping, so manufacturers and grillers can use it at high temperatures.
03
Magnetic
properties
443 is magnetic, providing a useful addition when cooking as users can attach magnets to the grill.
04
Low
maintenance
This grade of steel doesn’t require high levels of upkeep and cleaning.
Advantages of using 443 stainless steel for BBQ grills
With resistance to corrosion and rust, 443 stainless steel is perfect for outdoor cooking applications.
443 is a more accessible choice due to being lower price than many other stainless steel grades.
The magnetic properties of 443 stainless steel are useful for various attachments, making this steel grade versatile.
With little upkeep or cleaning needed to maintain 443’s quality, users can enjoy an easy-to-keep grilling solution.
High-heat grilling is suitable with 443 stainless steel without the material warping or deforming.
443 stainless steel is harder to get hold of than other stainless steel grades.
Ferritic stainless steels, such as 443, have lower strength than austenitic stainless steels, like 304. This lower hardness level can make the steel less resistant to signs of wear and tear.
443 isn’t quite as heat resistant as other materials, like aluminum or cast iron, despite withstanding high temperatures.
Disadvantages of using 430 stainless steel for BBQ grills
How to Keep Your Grill Performance at The Best Level
While each steel grade we’ve covered has pros and cons, it’s best to implement good maintenance and cleaning practices for your steel grill to work optimally. Grease build-up and broken-down bits of food affect how well your grill performs, and even impact the taste of your food.
Regular cleaning will prevent your steel grade from collecting mass amounts of grease, which lead to inadequate hygiene and bad performance.
Your cleaning routine will depend on the type of grill you have, with gas grills requiring extra safety levels when dealing with flammable substances.
Additionally, you don’t want to use bristles that are too harsh, so checking the type of steel you’re scrubbing is advised at this stage.
For example, 443 is less durable, so you want to avoid going in too strongly with a harsh bristle brush that’ll show clear markings and signs of wear and tear. Instead, use lighter motions to dislodge any food or gunk, always wiping down with a damp cloth after to remove any bristles that may have come out of the brush.
You’ll notice that the steel grades we detailed above contain chromium. Regarding chromium, oxygen is needed to prevent rusting, a key element of steel grade and grill maintenance.
Therefore, cleaning your grill as soon as possible after cooking is essential, ensuring you remove food and grease and apply oils to leave your grill ready to be used again.
Overall, the best way to keep your grill performing at its best is by implementing a simple cleaning routine and sticking to it every time you use it.
Additionally, selecting a steel grade with good longevity will put you in a better position to have a durable, robust grill that stands the test of time.
Conclusion
Plenty of options are available when selecting which grade of steel will be most suitable for your BBQ grill. While there are clear frontrunners, each has good points that ensure you can grill food to a substantial level with your own budget kept in mind.
If you’re looking for the most cost-effective, budget-friendly grade of steel to invest in, you could take a few routes. 443 stainless steel is a good, affordable grade of steel but doesn’t have the strength of more expensive variations. 430 is another cost-effective variation with innovative magnetic properties but lacks durability. 201 stainless steel is one of the cheapest options on the market. However, it has significantly lower quality than other variations.
Despite pointing out the cons of the more cost-effective options, these variations have many pros too. For example, 443 and 430 have magnetic properties and corrosion resistance. The main sacrifice you make when investing in more affordable steel grades is the quality and the fact that these grades lack the heat resistance other grades can offer.
On the other hand, if you have the budget to invest in more expensive steel grades, there are a few solid options to consider. Marine-grade grills aren’t cheap, but their price reflects the quality. With marine-grade grills, the level of corrosion resistance is incredibly reliable and robust, ensuring your investment will last for years, even with minimal maintenance.
430 grade stainless steel grill
Marine-grade stainless steel grill
304 grade stainless steel grill
304 steel grades are another option on the expensive side, providing users with a dependable, easy-to-clean, and corrosion-resistant grill.
Additionally, this grade is one of the most visually appealing, with a shiny, bright surface catching the eye of anyone with a keen love for aesthetically pleasing tools.
If you’re looking for a grill and aren’t sure which direction to go in, regardless of budget, our selection of grills on Grillio is a great place to start. From industry-standard marine-grade stainless steel grills to more affordable options that include 430 and 304 stainless steel in their designs, you can be confident that we’ll have something to suit your needs.
Discover a variety of grills on our platform.
What is stainless steel?
Stainless steel is an alloy resistant to corrosion and staining. It is made of iron, chromium, nickel, and other elements. Chromium creates a protective layer that prevents rust and adds durability. This makes stainless steel popular in construction, automotive, and kitchenware industries. It is used for appliances, utensils, and structural components due to its strength and attractive appearance.
What types of stainless steel are available?
- Austenitic stainless steel is a common and versatile type that is non-magnetic and highly resistant to corrosion, making it suitable for many applications.
- Ferritic stainless steel is magnetic and has high levels of chromium but low levels of nickel. It is resistant to stress corrosion cracking and used in automotive and architectural applications.
- Martensitic stainless steel is strong and hard, with high carbon and low nickel content. It is magnetic and commonly used in knife blades, turbine blades, and surgical instruments.
- Duplex stainless steel is a strong and corrosion-resistant material used in various industries like oil and gas, chemical processing, and marine environments.
Why choose stainless steel?
- Stainless steel is highly durable and resistant to corrosion, making it a long-lasting option.
- It is easy to clean and maintain, with a smooth surface that resists stains and odors.
- Stainless steel is a versatile material that can be used in various applications, from kitchen appliances to industrial equipment.
- It is a hygienic choice, as stainless steel is non-porous and does not harbor bacteria or germs.
Are stainless steel grills better?
Stainless steel grills are better than other grills for a few reasons. They don’t rust or corrode, so they last longer and look good. They’re strong and can handle high temperatures, so they’re great for outdoor cooking. They distribute heat evenly and don’t have hot spots. They’re also easy to clean and maintain. Stainless steel grills might cost more, but they’re worth it because they last and perform well. People who love grilling often choose stainless steel grills.
How to prevent a stainless steel grill from rusting?
- Clean the grill regularly to remove any grease or residue that can contribute to rust formation.
- Apply a thin coat of cooking oil or a specialized grill protector to create a barrier between the metal and moisture.
- Store the grill in a dry area or use a grill cover to protect it from rain, snow, and other elements.
- Avoid using abrasive materials or harsh chemicals when cleaning the grill to prevent scratching or damaging the protective coating.
What to look for when choosing a stainless steel grill?
When choosing a stainless steel grill, consider these factors: quality stainless steel, durability, rust and corrosion resistance, higher grade for longevity. Also, consider size and cooking area to meet your needs. Look for features like multiple burners, adjustable heat controls, and a built-in thermometer for precise temperature control. Lastly, check the brand and model reputation and reviews for reliability and customer satisfaction.
How to tell if you're getting quality stainless steel?
To determine stainless steel quality, consider grade, such as 304 or 316. 304 is common for everyday use, 316 is more corrosion-resistant. Use a magnet to test stainless steel; if it sticks, it may be lower quality. Check for a smooth, polished surface with no defects. Buy from reputable suppliers who provide certifications or guarantees for quality.
Is type 304 or 430 stainless steel better for a gas grill?
When choosing between type 304 or 430 stainless steel for a gas grill, it depends on your needs. Type 304 is higher quality and more resistant to corrosion than type 430. It lasts longer and withstands outdoor elements. Type 430 is more affordable and still offers decent corrosion resistance. It’s a budget-friendly option for those who don’t require as much durability. Choose based on your budget, desired lifespan, and personal preferences.
What is the best steel for a BBQ grill?
The best stainless steel for a BBQ grill is 304-grade stainless steel. It’s durable, resistant to corrosion, and can handle high temperatures without warping or rusting. It also has a high chromium content, preventing staining and keeping it looking polished. Choosing a BBQ grill made from 304-grade stainless steel means you’re getting a high-quality, long-lasting product.
What does grade 316 stainless steel mean?
Grade 316 stainless steel has more chromium, nickel, and molybdenum than other grades. This makes it highly resistant to corrosion, making it great for harsh chemical or saltwater environments. It is commonly used in marine, pharmaceutical, and food processing industries. It is also heat resistant and has high tensile strength, making it versatile.