Marine Grade Fasteners

What are marine grade fasteners?

Marine grade fasteners refer to fasteners that have been designed specifically for the marine industry. In other words, they are entirely weather/corrosion resistant. A salt water (marine) environment is a difficult one for metals because of corrosion. On any ship, boat, or oil rig part of the hull or structure remains under water in use, while another portion is above, creating different “zones”, and different corrosion resisting solutions.

Most Stainless Steel fasteners do not stand up to the corrosive properties of saltwater environments. It requires special grades of Stainless Steel like 316 Grade A4, duplex Stainless Steel, Monel or Titanium  to serve the purpose.

Stainless Steel Grade AISI 316 A4 is now becoming increasingly popular for a number of applications because of the long life it imparts to the components. It is also know as food grade stainless steel and is very useful in food processing, Pharmaceutical and Chemical industries.

AISI-316 Stainless Steel’s excellent corrosion resistance makes it perfect for both internal and external applications.

Whilst this higher-grade steel is generally more expensive than A2 Stainless Steel fasteners, it can be more cost-effective over a longer period of time, due to it’s corrosion resistance and durability, leading to reduced maintenance costs, fewer replacement parts and less down time due to equipment breakdown.  It will also remain clean and bright under atmospheric conditions.

MAGNETISM – It is very important to recognise the fact that all stainless steel fasteners after cold working exhibit magnetism to some extent including SS-316

Wire Rope Clips SS316 A4 Marine Grade Stainless Steel