Stainless steel fasteners are a great choice for many applications due to their high strength and corrosion resistance. For a host of industrial and commercial projects, stainless steel is used in countless industries where these qualities are necessary.
Not all stainless steels are created equal, however. There are different grades that offer varying levels of performance in terms of strength and corrosion resistance. In this blog post, we'll explore the various grades of stainless steel fasteners available on the market today, so you can make an informed decision about which type will work best for your application.
What is Stainless Steel?
Unlike steel, stainless steel is an alloy that contains not only iron and carbon, but also at least 10.5% chromium to prevent tarnishing or corrosion from moisture and chemicals. Its superior resistance makes it ideal for those seeking a long-term solution in any environment - especially those requiring sterile conditions such as food preparation and pharmaceuticals.
An Overview of the Different Types of Stainless Steel
Stainless steel fasteners are an essential component of any construction project, and marine-grade stainless steel screws offer superior corrosion resistance and rust protection. There are many types and grades of stainless steel used in the manufacture of fasteners, and each has unique properties depending on the application. The most common types include:
304 grade
Type 304 stainless steels are a highly sought-after material for many applications, including corrosion-resistant electrical enclosures, automotive molding and trim, wheel covers, kitchen appliances and fixtures, hose clamps, exhaust manifolds, and hardware components with metal finishes like storage tanks or pressure vessels. It is also commonly found in piping systems around the world.
316 grade
Marine grade 316 is highly resistant to corrosive solutions and high temperature, making it a popular choice among various industries involved with chemical processing. Its non-reactive qualities make it suitable for creating medical surgical instruments, as well as pharmaceuticals that need to be free of any metallic contaminants.
410 grade
410 stainless steel is extremely versatile and has been used in many products, from medical equipment to auto components. Its remarkable corrosion resistance, combined with its impressive strength and heat tolerance, make it an ideal material for almost any project.
17-4 PH Stainless Steel (precipitation hardened)
Alloy 17-4PH is used in applications where both strength and moderate corrosion resistance are necessary. This product has comparable corrosion resistance to 304L, which makes it an ideal choice for chemical, dairy, food, paper and petroleum industries that require such qualities.
Duplex Stainless Steel
Duplex stainless steel is highly sought after due to its outstanding combination of robust mechanical properties and exceptional corrosion resistance. This remarkable alloy can be found in various industries, from the production of marine heat exchangers to chemical containers used for high-concentration chloride environments.
Super Duplex Stainless Steel
Super duplex materials are widely used in industrial applications, from pumps to valves, fasteners, and connectors. They can be found across the petrochemical/chemical, pulp, and paper industries, as well as oil and gas components.
Marine Grade 316 Stainless Steel Fasteners
316 grade stainless steel is the ideal choice for withstanding corrosive environments like saltwater or water rich in chlorine. The corrosion resistance comes from its 16% chromium, 10% nickel and 2 % molybdenum composition. The added molybdenum helps combat chloride-induced damage, such as sea water or de-icing salts.
Many types of fasteners are manufactured with 316 stainless steel, and the most common types are stainless steel screws. These include:
Flat Head Screws
Flat head marine grade 316 stainless steel screws are generally used in heavier-duty applications where vibration may be present or greater strength is needed. They also have more contact with their base material than other types of screws, which helps them resist shear forces better than other types.
Pan Head Screws
Pan head marine grade 316 stainless steel screws are commonly used in lighter applications, like woodworking projects, where vibration or torque may be present, but not as much as with a flathead screw. They also have less contact with their base material than a flathead screw, so they’re often used when minimal surface damage needs to be avoided.
Round Head Screws
Round head marine grade 316 stainless steel screws are ideal for lighter duty applications, such as furniture assembly or cabinetry, because they have a smaller profile than a flathead or pan-head screw, and don’t require pre-drilling into the material being fastened.
Button Head Screws
Button head marine grade 316 stainless steel screws provide both strength and aesthetics for heavier duty applications, such as marine engine covers or outdoor fixtures that may frequently come into contact with water.. The button shape allows these types of screws to hold tighter to their base material, while still providing good appearance and visibility when installed properly.
Hex Head Screws
Hex head marine grade 316 stainless steel screws are perfect for securing metal components together, because they provide superior clamping force against their base material, which increases tension between two parts being joined securely. Hex heads also allow for easy tightening/loosening using standard wrenches or sockets, so it makes them incredibly versatile for multiple purposes in marine construction projects.
Overall, marine grade 316 stainless steel fasteners are the perfect choice for applications that require superior corrosion and vibration resistance. Due to their impressive combination of strength and durability, marine grade 316 stainless steel fasteners should be your go-to product when looking for reliable products with exceptional performance capabilities.
Secure Your Projects with Marine Grade 316 Stainless Steel Fasteners from Fastener Systems
Secure your projects today with marine grade 316 stainless steel fasteners from Fastener Systems. Our fasteners are designed to provide superior corrosion resistance and strength, which makes them ideal for use in various industries. Choose from our wide selection of screws, bolts, and other fasteners to get the job done right!
Contact us today to learn more.
