Compare cost, corrosion resistance, weight, and finish before you upload. Then price the actual geometry—not a generic estimate.
Use this as a starting point. Final suitability depends on the part, environment, and finish requirements.
| Property | A1011 carbon steel | 304 2B stainless | 3003 aluminum |
|---|---|---|---|
| Best starting point for | Brackets, fixtures, guards | Washdown and visible parts | Panels, covers, light assemblies |
| Relative cost | Lowest | Highest | Medium |
| Corrosion resistance | Low without coating | High | Moderate |
| Weight | Standard | Heaviest | About one-third of steel |
| Typical finish | Mill finish; often coated | Smooth 2B finish | Clean mill finish |
A1011 carbon steel
Strong, readily available, and cost-conscious. Start here for industrial brackets, fixtures, guards, and parts that will be painted or coated.
304 2B stainless steel
A practical choice for washdown areas, food equipment, visible assemblies, and parts that need stainless performance without custom sourcing.
3003 aluminum
Well suited to enclosures, covers, panels, and assemblies where lower part or shipping weight matters more than maximum strength.
Select material and thickness row by row after upload. You can review every detail before ordering.