FASTENERS 101™
Material FAQ

Stainless Steel

Why doesn’t stainless steel rust?

Stainless steel generates its own special film that protects it from environmental harm. Even if this film is damaged it will regrow in environments with moderate to high levels of oxygen.

Why is stainless steel corrosion resistant?

It creates a film coating over its exterior that protects it from harsh environmental factors.

Why stainless steel is used?

Stainless steel is used because it is incredibly corrosion resistant, it is anti-microbial and bacteria resistant, it is shiny and silver (or black).

Will stainless steel rust?

Stainless steel may rust if the wrong grade is used or if the material becomes damaged in a way that it will not regenerate its protective coating.

Is stainless steel magnetic?

Stainless steel can be magnetic but is not organically magnetic, it typically becomes magnetic after being "worked".

Which stainless steel is food grade?

316 Stainless steel is the ideal food grade stainless steel because it is highly corrosion resistant.

Which stainless steel grade is the best?

Each grade of stainless steel has different uses and it will depend on the job you are using it for.

Which stainless steel is the most corrosion resistant?

316 Stainless steel is the most corrosion resistant grade.

Which grades of stainless steel don’t rust?

Each grade can rust and should be used in the proper environment to extend its life as long as possible.

Can I use aluminum and stainless steel together?

NO, using aluminum and stainless steel together will cause electrons to transfer and compromise the materials integrity, this process is known as galvanic corrosion. If you must combine aluminum and stainless, you must always use a neoprene EPDM washer as a barrier between the materials to prevent corrosion.

Aluminum

Will aluminum rust?

Aluminum is corrosion resistant but can rust in certain environments.

Will aluminum corrode?

Aluminum is corrosion resistant but can rust in certain environments.

Will aluminum corrode in saltwater?

Lower grades of aluminum may rust in saltwater marine environments.

Silicon Bronze

What are silicon bronze screws?

Screws made from silicon bronze.

What are silicon bronze bolts used for?

Silicon bronze is used in marine and electrical applications due to its high corrosion resistant properties and ability to conduct electricity.

What color is silicon bronze?

Silicon bronze tends to be a Redish brown color.

When should I use silicon bronze?

Silicon bronze has exceptional corrosion resistance and is ideal for harsh environments.

Will silicon bronze rust?

Silicon bronze should not rust.

Brass

Will brass rust?

While brass will patina (tarnish) over time it takes a very long time to rust.

Will brass tarnish?

Yes brass does turn darker over time when exposed to the elements. The variation of materials in brass may also cause the brass to be darker or lighter in color.

Will brass stick to a magnet?

No brass is not magnetic.

Will brass conduct electricity?

Brass has limited conductivity making it a poor choice for electrical purposes.

Will brass turn green?

Yes, brass will patina over time. This is not the same as rust and does not compromise the material.

Can brass be painted?

Yes, but it is hard to get paint to stick to it, special paint will be needed.

Can brass be hardened?

Yes, the brass must first be heated evenly and then allowed to cool slowly to make it harder.

For more detailed information please visit our Fasteners 101 Resource Pages

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