Stainless steel fasteners are one of the best options to use in any application. They are known for their strength, corrosion resistance and durability. However, like any other component, knowledge of the correct custom stainless steel fasteners, their application and maintenance, will assure flawless performance. Personnel should be educated as to the correct expectations for stainless fasteners. All employees would benefit from a basic understanding of these stainless components. We provide valuable information in this post.
Important Points about Custom Stainless Fasteners
Your employees will have a better understanding about stainless steel fasteners after reading the information given below:
1. Make sure you get the Right Stainless Steel Grade: The best stainless steel grade to look for in fasteners is 303 SS. This is the most common grade for screw machining. Grade 316 has a higher corrosion resistance level than 304. However, this also means that 316 will be more expensive and the maintenance requirements will be higher than Grade 304. Grade 304 has properties best suited for welding. Hence, make sure you get the right grade of stainless steel for your application.
2. Use the Right Tools for Installation: Drilling is a process where holes are created in the equipment to install fasteners. If you wish to enhance the performance of a custom stainless fastener, ensure that the tool settings and the holes are adjusted and created to the specifications of the fasteners. If the setting is too small the fastener may not get installed properly. If the slotted hole is too big the fastener can become loose causing the equipment to rattle.
3. Lubricate the Thread before Installing: Sometimes during installation the threads of the fastener can get stuck and may suffer from galling. This refers to threading wear due to excess force applied on them which can affect the fastener’s performance. The easiest way to avoid this is to lubricate the threads with oil to prevent any interference during installation.
4. Maintain a Proper Cleaning Schedule: Contamination can have a negative effect on stainless steel fasteners. When stainless steel is exposed to other materials, moisture, dirt and vapor, their performance and durability diminish. If left unchecked this can lead to frequent fastener replacement. The best way to avoid this is to maintain a proper cleaning schedule. Use cleaning fluids that dry quickly and will not leave moisture on the fasteners. Keep the fasteners dry and protect them from vapors emanating from equipment or from outside the facility.
5. Perform Electrochemical Polishing on the Fasteners: Another reason behind the durability of custom steel fasteners is that they have a protective layer of chromium oxide on their bodies. However, if the fasteners are exposed to water or moisture a lot, this protective layer can wear off leading to physical deterioration. If you notice that the custom stainless fasteners have become dull it would be a good idea to get them electro-polished. This process is performed to help fasteners that have lost their chromium oxide layers.
6. Monitor the Fasteners: If the fasteners undergo any kind of wear, chances are they can become loose which can affect their performance. Create a monitoring schedule that has employees inspecting the fasteners from time to time. If you find a loose fastener you can address the issue or replace the fastener altogether.
These various solutions can help you with the upkeep of custom stainless steel fasteners and in turn the end results. You can always feel free to discuss these individual points with us as needed.