The saying that work is less difficult with the proper tools is tried and true, and choosing the right fastener material and finish can make or break a project. With so many different options of fasteners available, even professionals can become overwhelmed trying to find the best choice for their application needs.
Common Fastener Materials
Fasteners are manufactured in a wide variety of materials, coatings, and finishes that are intended to tailor to specific applications. Aluminum, carbon steel, and alloy steels are among the materials most frequently used in fastener manufacturing. However, advancements in plastics, nylon, brass, and other materials have flooded the market, making picking the right fastener for your needs even more confusing.
Alloy And Carbon Steel
Alloy steels produce low corrosion resistance but typically require additional coatings to work properly. They offer high strength yet can be brittle and rigid. The most standard material for screws and bolts is that of carbon steel which is compared to that of alloy which is used in higher grade applications.
Aluminum And Silicone Bronze
Aluminum also creates corrosion-resistant fasteners that are light and soft, where as brass carries the added benefit of being similar to Aluminum yet electrically conductive.
Often used in marine applications where corrosion is a problem, silicone bronze provides corrosion resistance similar to stainless stell yet at a higher strength and standard bronze materials.
Titanium
Titanium has become widely popular for its extreme corrosion resistance properties and superior strength to weight in comparison to that of aluminum. Titanium is ideal for hostile high-temperature environments and is typically a choice material for the aerospace industry.
Plastics And Nylon
Along with the various types of plastics, nylon is perhaps the most commonly used. Nylon is extremely strong at all of its grades and stands out among the others in wear resistance. The advancements in plastics are making this material for fasteners a well-rounded option for many applications.
Finishes
The material that the fastener is constructed of is then finished in one of the many types of finishes used in manufacturing today. These finishes work to prevent corrosion and increase strength against brittleness. Finishes have a great impact on the performance of the fastener and should be considered when choosing the right fit for your project application.
There is a coating for almost every need such as zinc plating, chrome plating, and black oxide, all of which serve specific intentions. From improved aesthetics to military-grade capabilities, fastener finishes are the icing on the cake.
Trust The Experts
In the world of fasteners, its what’s on the inside, and on the outside that counts. Don’t let your choice of fasteners cramp your style, rely on Monster Bolts to deliver the right products for your needs with your satisfaction guaranteed.