Fasteners are manufactured in different material types including aluminum, alloy steel, stainless steel, and silicon bronze. Material combination, treatment, toughening, and plating [coating] determine where to use the fastener and its strength.
If you want to replace the bolt, screw, nut or washer then perform a matching or precise swap. It means for stainless steel square nuts, local people can visit Fair Wind Fasteners in Newport RI to buy the 316 stainless steel grade. It is because 316 grades are designed for better corrosion resistance. Never replace it with a less graded bolt like 303 & 304.
The major advantage of stainless-steel material is because of its durability and corrosion-resistant. Burring or scratching the metal does not generate surface rust because the material has in-built corrosion resistance. The cold-formed method is not used to make stainless steel bolts because it has low carbon content. Threading and cold forming cause the SS bolts to become a little magnetic. Depending on the cold-forming process swiftness and bolt size determine the fastener’s magnetic level.
Stainless steel fasteners are silver-colored, so they are common in decorative applications. Never use stainless steel with aluminum because galvanic deterioration likely occurs.
Stainless steel nuts – types & applications
Stainless steel nuts are available in all sizes and shapes. Every design has its advantages. So, let’s get familiar with the different stainless steel nut types to make an informed buying decision.
Hex nuts
Hex nuts have six sides. The design is unique and allows room for a solid grip with the wrench from different angles. It offers great convenience because you can gain access to places that are hard for a wrench to turn 360° for installations or repairs.
The hex nut is used with –
- Wood & metal
- Locking mechanisms
- Anchor shackles
- Fasteners [nuts & bolts] with ¼ – 20 external threading
- Pan Head, round head, flat head, hex head cap, truss head, and oval head.
Wing nuts
Nuts are designed with 2 flat wings, which allow you to easily tighten or loosen with fingers only. They are not meant for robust strength, so used where convinced is prioritized over strength.
Wing nuts are used in –
- Construction
- Industrial
- OEM applications
Cap nuts
The top is dome-shaped instead of flat. Interestingly, they allow aerodynamics. It is suitable for vehicles and aircraft, but is generally used for aesthetic purposes on steel furnishings and handrails.
Square nuts
A square nut typically has 4-sides that provide great resistance to loosening because its underside has a great surface and offers a better grip for full tightening. 316 Stainless Square Nut is suitable for harsh, severe, or marine environments. It is a fastener recommended for saltwater application.
Square nut is used in –
- Rail channels
- Used as a blind nut in furniture
- Utility industry
Stainless steel can be categorized into different types –
- Austenitic Stainless Steel – It offers the highest corrosion resistance degree. It has a tensile strength of 80,000 to 150,000 PSI.
- Martensitic stainless steel – It is considered magnetic steel and can be heat treated for increasing its hardness but welding is not recommended. It has a tensile strength of 180,000 to 250,000 PSI.
- Ferritic stainless steel – It has poor tensile strength and corrosion resistance strength. So, the material is unable to be heat treated.
With an informed decision you can visit the local store to find a suitable stainless-steel nut for your project.
