Fastener Materials

Fasteners are important in nearly every industry from manufacturing small medical equipment devices to huge aerospace projects. They come in all different types of materials and depending on your use, you will have to consider the various properties of the material. Some materials are stronger, whereas some are more corrosion resistant, etc. It is important to consider these when selecting which type of fastener material is required.

Steel

The most common type of material is steel due to its strength and durability. It is available in different grades including 2, 5, and 8, with Grade 8 being the strongest. Steel fasteners are often coated with a clear zinc layer to prevent corrosion and improve their appearance. A variety of other finishes are available including zinc dichromate (yellow zinc), green zinc, black zinc, nickel, cadmium, etc.

Stainless Steel

Stainless steel is an alloy made-up of steel and chromium. It is primarily used for its corrosion resistance and durability. It holds up well in harsh environments and with corrosive substances. 18-8 stainless is the most commonly used grade followed by 316 stainless which offers superior corrosion resistance to chlorides and acids.

Aluminum

Frequently used in aerospace and automotive industries, aluminum is a lightweight material with excellent strength-to-weight ratio. These fasteners are also corrosion resistant but are not as strong as steel or stainless steel.

Brass

Brass is a corrosion-resistant alloy of copper and zinc, known for its excellent electrical conductivity and aesthetics. Brass fasteners are often used in decorative applications, electronics, and plumbing.

Titanium

Titanium is a strong, lightweight metal known for its corrosion resistance and biocompatibility. It is often used in medical implants, aerospace applications, and high-performance automotive parts. Titanium fasteners are more expensive than typical steel fasteners but offer superior strength and corrosion resistance.

Selecting the right material is important for any project. Depending on your industry, you may be more familiar with different types of materials and grades of each. Stainless steel is great for corrosion resistance, steel is good for high-stress applications, aluminum and titanium are ideal for lightweight applications, and brass is good for decorative applications.

Make sure to consider the environment the fastener will be in and keep the end product in mind. Certain types of materials are more common than others such as steel and stainless. Aluminum, brass, and titanium can be more expensive but that doesn’t mean we can’t get them! Email us your inquiries today for fasteners of any material.