What is Stainless Steel?

Stainless steel is a type of metal element that is commonly used in the production of fasteners simply because of its many capabilities to withstand corrosive chemicals in the air, water, acid, alkaline salt, and others. There are several types of stainless steel: austenitic, ferritic, martensitic, and duplex (austenitic-ferritic). Each type of stainless steel has its classifications of grades that features different level of strength, durability, corrosion resistance, and quality.

The different types of stainless steel are widely used in manufacturing a range of inventory of types of fasteners.

Defining the types of Stainless Steel

Austenitic

For many products, in people’s daily life the most common material used is austenite stainless steel. This type of steel is comprised of 16-26% chromium and up to 35% nickel, making the overall composition have the highest corrosion resistance.

Subtypes: 

• Stainless steel 304
• Stainless Steel 316

Applications:

• Aerospace
• Food processing industry

Ferritic

Standard ferritic steel has 10.5-27% chromium and no nickel, they also contain a low carbon (not more than 0.2%). This steel has less resistant to corrosion compared to austenitic.

Subtypes:

• Stainless Steel 409, 430, 439, 441

Applications:

• Architectural
• Auto Trim

Martensitic

This steel has moderate properties in restraining corrosive elements, martensitic typically contains 11.5-18% chromium and 1.2% carbon steel. 

Subtypes:

• Stainless steel 400-level grades

Applications:

• Wrench (tool)
• Turbines
• Surgical instruments

Duplex (austenitic-ferritic)

the equal combination of austenitic and ferritic creates a duplex. This steel has increased features than both of the combined elements itself. It contains 21-27% chromium, 8% nickel(max), about 3% copper, and 0.05-5% molybdenum. 

Applications:

• Chemical processing
• storage tanks
• Anything that involves chemical elements

Why Choose Stainless Steel Fasteners?

Advantages of Stainless Steel 

1. High-level corrosion resistance. Stainless steel has natural elements that can withstand the destructive elements and fatigue mostly present in the environment of use of fasteners.
2. Quick installation. innovation has led the simpler ways of installing mechanical devices using stainless steel fasteners. The material is durable and effectively strong making them less likely to cause problems that can be encountered during installation (i.e. breakage).
3. It can self-repair. Yes. They have self-repairing abilities that cannot be found in other metal elements. During the instances of scratching on the surface of the fastener, the layer of chromium uses oxidation and repairs the damaged part like it hasn’t been scratched before.
4. Adaptive to elements. All applications have environmental issues that propose different problems in fastening. Luckily, stainless steel can adapt to most critical situations in the applications of fasteners.
5. No trouble with maintenance. Since this material has excellent durability they require little to no maintenance in applications of fasteners.
6. Novel design and outlook. What’s more engaging than having a good visual of products and structures? Stainless steel fasteners can make a decorative look out of standard fastening. 
7. Competitively priced. Stainless steel fasteners are available in a wide variety of selections and are highly in demand nowadays, and yet they are inexpensive and convenient for every kind of fastening.

Disadvantages of Stainless Steel

1. Costs can be higher than most fasteners. When compared to prices of standard fasteners, stainless steel is particularly higher in value this is because of its renowned quality and features.
2. Not advisable for high-temperature applications. Some elements like stainless steel cannot sustain high temperatures and are subject to failure when exposed to long-term use.
3. Non-compatibility with aluminum. Stainless steel destructively reacts with aluminum. The two elements don’t get along when used together in applications.

How to Choose Stainless Steel Screws

1. SELECT THE RIGHT TYPE OF STAINLESS STEEL FASTENER

The primary step in every fastening would be choosing what type of fastener you will need. Stainless steel fastener is widely manufactured by most factories today because of their capabilities, there will be multiple kinds of stainless steel fasteners. If you want to know which one will be the most suitable type for your application you will have to consult experts. Talk with a reliable fastener supplier today! 

2. KNOW THE APPLICABLE GRADE, AND ENSURE THE QUALITY

The grades are marks mostly found in the head of screws, bolts, etc., these are identification of features, capacity, strength, and others on fasteners. It can also dictate the accurate use of devices in situations that require critical measures. If quality is uncompromised the assembly is perceived to develop effectiveness and security, which are the most important function of fasteners.

3. LEARN TO CHOOSE THE RIGHT SURFACE FINISHING/COATING

With the multiple variations of surface treatments available today, its only aim is to add a protective layer in fasteners than can enhance their productivity and effectiveness in applications. Standard fasteners will likely have a plain finish because their uses are limited to simple kinds of fastening. Yet for more crucial applications, a certain kind of coating can be exclusively applied on stainless steel fasteners.

4. CONSIDER ENHANCEMENTS TO THE COMPONENTS

Particular measures can be further implied in methods available for enhancing stainless steel screws. An example would be electro-polishing, this method is also called passivating wherein ferrous contaminants of stainless steel are removed to ensure great resistance to corrosion.

Prince Fastener offers a wide variety of stainless steel screws for different kinds of applications. We also manufacture custom-made fasteners according to drawings, bespoke, and more. Contact us today and consider a great value deal and offers!