Common materials for custom fasteners include carbon steel, stainless steel, brass, aluminum alloy, etc. These materials each have their own characteristics and applicable scenarios.
Carbon steel
Carbon steel is one of the most commonly used fastener materials. According to the carbon content, it can be divided into low carbon steel, medium carbon steel and high carbon steel. Low carbon steel (such as A3 steel, 1008, 1018, etc.) is mainly used for products without hardness requirements such as 4.8-grade bolts and 4-grade nuts; medium carbon steel (such as 35 and 45 steel) is suitable for 8.8-grade bolts and hexagonal products; high carbon steel is less used.
Stainless steel
Stainless steel is widely used because of its excellent corrosion resistance and heat resistance. Common stainless steel materials include austenitic stainless steel (such as 304, 316), martensitic stainless steel and ferritic stainless steel. 304 stainless steel (06Cr19Ni10) has excellent oxidation resistance, formability and economy, and is suitable for environments from -196°C to 800°C; 316 stainless steel (06Cr17Ni12Mo2) adds molybdenum to 304, and has stronger resistance to chloride ion corrosion, especially suitable for harsh environments such as marine engineering.
Brass and aluminum alloys
Brass and aluminum alloys are also commonly used fastener materials. Brass is mainly used in situations where good conductivity and corrosion resistance are required; aluminum alloys are widely used due to their low density, high strength and excellent electrical and thermal conductivity, and are suitable for products that require lightweight.
Material selection guide
When selecting fastener materials, factors such as the use environment, load type, and temperature range need to be considered. For example, in corrosive environments, stainless steel is a better choice; in situations where high strength and wear resistance are required, alloy steel is a more suitable choice. In addition, fasteners of different materials are also different in convenience during installation and removal, and need to be selected according to specific needs.
