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1. DO: Select the right grade. There are many different grades of stainless steel. The two commonly used grades are 304 and 316, with 316 being more corrosion resistant than 304. The rule of thumb is that if the fastener is in a corrosive environment (e.g. within 5km of the coast), 316 is preferable, particularly if the fastener is to be seen, as 316 is less likley to 'tea-stain' or develop a brown discolouration (see photo of bracket showing tea-staining). Click here to know more about stainless steel hex nuts . 2.DO: Lubricate Threads. Top stainless fastener engineers recommend that all stainless steel threads should be lubricated before being assembled, to reduce the risk of galling (this is when threads lock up). We have found the most risk of galling is with larger threads (M16 upwards), and also when using nyloc nuts. Click here to know more about stainless steel cage nuts . 3. DO: Select the right surface finish. The smoother or more polished the finish, ...

Fasteners are often the lesser priority, class C afterthought components in sourcing, yet they can drive product difficulty, inventory waste, & late program cost increases if not managed properly. Without them, our cars, homes, cell phones, & even the chairs we sit in would fall apart. Knowing a few main features about the fasteners you are sourcing will accelerate & improve sourcing results. Below are five things you need to know when sourcing fasteners. 1) Material Selecting the correct material for fasteners is not only significant when considering cost, but even more so when considering factors like strength, brittleness, & corrosion resistance. Steel & stainless steel fasteners are the most common used & account for approximately 90% of all fasteners manufactured. Steel & stainless steel rule the automotive industry, along with plastic fasteners. Steel continues to gain popularity because of its tensile strength, durability, & high ...