Fastener Materials And Their Uses

Zinc-plated steel is a low carbon steel for general use. Relatively inexpensive, with the zinc plating Providing moderate corrosion resistance suitable for indoors or otherwise dry conditions. Color is either a blue-ish tint or yellow depending on the exact process.

Hot-dipped galvanized steel has a thicker zinc coating for better corrosion resistance, making it suitable for outdoor use. Because f the thick plating, only galvanized nuts and washers will fit galvanized bolts. The coating typically has a rough, dull grey finish.

Stainless steel offers good corrosion resistance, making it suitable for outdoor use and marine  applications, but is  more expensive than zinc plated.

 

Chrome and nickel plated steel are smooth and polished for appearance. The plating offers moderate corrosion resistance.

 

Brass and bronze are copper alloys with good corrosion resistance. More expensive than steel, these materials are typically used for decorative applications. Colors can vary significantly.

 

Alloy steel is highly hardened and usually black oxide and/or oil coated, offering little corrosion resistance.

 

There are three major steel fasteners used in industries: stainless steel, carbon steel, and alloy steel. The major grade used in stainless steel fasteners: 200 series, 300 series, and 400 series. Titanium, aluminum, and various alloys are also common materials of construction for metal fasteners. In many cases, special coatings or plating may be applied to metal fasteners to improve their performance characteristics by, for example, enhancing corrosion resistance. Common coatings/platings include zinc, chrome, and hot dip galvanizing

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