Order in 1 hour 38 minutes

for Next Working Day Nationwide delivery

Corrosion-Resistant Fasteners: Which Materials Perform Best?


Corrosion-Resistant Fasteners: Which Materials Perform Best?

Fasteners affix two or more objects together, so they should be strong and durable. When screws, nuts and bolts corrode, they can compromise the integrity of the structure they’re holding.

One of the most notable examples of bolt failure is the San Francisco-Oakland Bay Bridge case. Cracks were found in the steel bolts used, which compromised the tensile strength of the bridge. Thankfully, the fractured fasteners were discovered before they could cause bigger casualties.

The Bay Bridge bolt failure shows that corrosion-resistant fasteners are critical to every building project. The key is to choose the right material for your screws, anchors, and nuts and bolts. This way, your fasteners won’t corrode easily, saving you the trouble of removing rusty screws and replacing them.

When buying screws online, choose ones that are made from any of the following materials:

  1. Stainless Steel

Stainless steel has inherent anti-corrosive properties. This means the metal won’t lose resistance even if it’s scratched or nicked over time. As such, stainless steel fasteners offer high levels of corrosion resistance. They’re also more cost-efficient than other corrosion-resistant bolts and screws.

When stainless steel is exposed to oxygen, it forms a thin layer of chromium oxide. Chromium oxide contributes to the durability of the metal, increasing its resistance to corrosion and rust. This is why the most metal structures that come into contact with saltwater use stainless nuts and bolts and screws.

  1. Titanium

Titanium fasteners offer a wealth of advantages. They’re highly resistant to corrosion, extremely durable, maintenance-free and heat-resistant. Titanium is also lighter than steel but has the same level of tensile strength. This is why micro fasteners are often made from titanium.

The downside to titanium fasteners is the cost, as titanium tends to be more expensive than other metals.

  1. Aluminium Alloy

Aluminium fasteners have similar properties to stainless steel ones. Both metal alloys are inherently corrosion-resistant, and their resistance won’t decrease even when scratched. Aluminium also forms a thin protective layer when exposed to oxygen, just like stainless steel and titanium.

  1. Inconel

Last is Inconel, a superalloy made from a mixture of nickel and chromium. Inconel is highly resistant to corrosion, fatigue and extreme temperatures, so fasteners of this alloy are perfect for high-stress environments.

Other ways to avoid metal corrosion

Protecting your fasteners from corrosion doesn’t stop by choosing the right materials. There are ways to prevent or slow down the effects of corrosion, such as galvanising and coating.

Make sure to purchase your screws, nuts and bolts from reputable distributors. This way, you’re guaranteed high-quality products that ensure the safety and success of your building project.

Leading Distributor of Fixings in the UK

Since 1974, Bryson has provided fit-out and refurbishment contractors in the UK with high-performing screws and fixings. We offer superior customer service on top of our premium quality products, giving you a pleasant shopping experience.

Browse our store today to buy corrosive-resistant screws online.


Posted: 20/01/2021