Material
Stainless Steel
Alloy Steel
This is the most general term for iron that has been combined with carbon, since all steel has some % of carbon, and at least one other element. Once the steel contains more than a specified threshold amount of a certain element it becomes an alloy. Each element has different threshold values and are used to improve some property of the steel. Common alloying elements are manganese, nickel, chromium, molybdenum, vanadium, and silicon.
Aluminum
This lightweight metal is used as an alternative to other materials when weight is an issue. It has a strength similar to low/medium grade steel. It is also nonmagnetic, electrically conductive, and resistant to corrosion from the elements. It is a great choice in outdoor environments. It is also the best choice when fastening to other materials made of aluminum, due to the tendency of other materials to cause galvanic corrosion to the aluminum.
Brass
This material has a general composition of 2/3 copper and 1/3 zinc. This material has a distinctive bright golden coloring and is primarily used in aesthetic settings or in applications where low friction is necessary. As an electroplated finish it is nonmagnetic and resists corrosion well. Often used when sparking is an issue. It has excellent cold working (forming at room temperature) properties. Used in locks, gears, doorknobs, plumbing, electrical applications and musical instruments.
Monel
This 2/3 nickel and 1/3 copper material is an alloy developed by the Special Metals Corporation. It has very good strength and is similar in strength to medium carbon steel, however, due to its strength it has poor machining properties. Its composition also provides it with excellent corrosion resistance in specific highly corrosive environments of sea water, hydrofluoric acid, sulfuric acid, alkalines. With the ability to retain its strength at very high and low temperatures it is one of the best materials to resist extreme elemental conditions. Applications include marine fasteners and chemical processing.
Silicon Bronze
This alloy is 96% copper and around 2 - 3% silicon. With very high corrosion resistance, it is commonly used in salt-water, fresh water, sewage, and atmospheric applications. It is quite durable and similar to low carbon steel in hardness. It is a popular alloy because of its combination of strength, ductility, corrosion resistance and weldability. It is commonly seen in architecture, marine applications, pumps and boilers.
Stainless Steel
An iron based material with a minimum of 10.5% chromium. This material is known for its corrosion resistance and has varying strengths depending on the amount of chromium and nickel alloy. The chromium forms a protective layer when exposed to oxygen, keeping the steel underneath from corroding. There are over 150 grades of this material with the 304 and 316 series being the most common.
Steel
The most common material used in fasteners, this material is predominantly iron mixed with carbon. It offers the highest strength compared to other metals and elements, but is the least corrosion resistant. Also known as Carbon Steel.
