Metric A4 (316) Stainless Steel Machine Screws
Quick Answer: What are A4 (316) stainless metric machine screws?
A4 (316) stainless steel metric machine screws are corrosion-resistant fasteners with metric threads designed for precise metal-to-metal fastening in metric-based assemblies. Because A4 stainless is comparable to 316 stainless steel, it is a top choice for marine, coastal, chemical, and washdown environments where standard A2 (304, 18-8) may stain or corrode over time.
Our metric A4 (316) stainless steel machine screws at AlbanyCountyFasteners.com are built for reliable, standardized installations using international metric hardware. A4 is an austenitic stainless alloy comparable to 316 stainless steel, widely considered marine grade due to its strong resistance to corrosion in salt air, moisture, and many chemical-exposed applications.
Why Choose Metric A4 (316) Stainless Steel Machine Screws?
- Superior corrosion resistance: Ideal for salt air, wet locations, and harsh outdoor conditions
- Marine-grade performance: A4 (316 equivalent) is a preferred material for docks, boats, and coastal builds
- Metric thread compatibility: Designed to match metric nuts and pre-tapped holes for consistent fit
- Clean, professional finish: Great for visible installations and long-term durability
- Head style variety: Options may include Phillips, slotted, hex, Torx/security, and more (varies by product)
Common Sizes and Uses
These screws are commonly used in sizes like M2, M3, M4, M5, M6, and M8, with thread pitch depending on diameter and a range of lengths to match material thickness and clamp load needs. If you are matching an existing assembly, confirm the diameter, pitch, and length before ordering.
Applications for A4 (316) Stainless Metric Machine Screws
If your project is exposed to saltwater, salt spray, chlorine, cleaning chemicals, or frequent moisture, A4 (316) stainless is typically the best choice for long-term corrosion resistance.
- Marine hardware and boat equipment
- Docks, seawalls, shoreline structures, and coastal construction
- Outdoor machinery exposed to rain, snow, or salt air
- Food processing equipment and washdown environments
- Industrial assemblies requiring corrosion-resistant metric fasteners
- Electronics enclosures and builds in humid conditions
A2 vs A4 Stainless: Which Should You Choose?
A2 stainless steel (comparable to 304, 18-8) is excellent for general-purpose indoor and outdoor use. A4 stainless steel (comparable to 316) is the upgrade for projects where corrosion risk is higher, especially in marine and chemical-exposed environments.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are metric A4 stainless steel machine screws?
Metric A4 stainless steel machine screws are fasteners made from A4 (316 equivalent) stainless steel with metric threads, designed for secure metal-to-metal fastening in equipment, assemblies, and structures that use metric standards.
Is A4 stainless steel the same as 316 stainless steel?
A4 stainless steel is comparable to 316 stainless steel. Both are known for strong corrosion resistance, particularly in marine, coastal, and many chemical or washdown environments.
Are A4 (316) machine screws recommended for marine use?
Yes. A4, 316 equivalent stainless steel is widely considered marine grade and is commonly recommended for boats, docks, and coastal projects.
How do I choose the right size metric A4 stainless machine screw?
Choose the correct screw by confirming the metric diameter and pitch (example: M4-0.7, M5-0.8, M6-1.0), selecting the needed length for your material thickness, and choosing a head style that fits your tool access and finish requirements.