Exploring the Materials Used in Barrel Bolts
Mating fasteners,
also known as Chicago screws, barrel nuts, or post and screw fasteners, are a
type of fastening solution used to join two or more materials securely. They
consist of two components: a male screw (post) and a female barrel, which has
an internally threaded hole. When assembled, the male and female parts combine
to create a robust and tamper-resistant connection.
The choice of materials used in barrel
bolts plays a pivotal role in their performance and durability. From the robust
strength of stainless steel to the lightweight versatility of aluminum, the
materials used in barrels and screws can significantly impact their
functionality in various applications.
In this article,
we delve into the diverse options available, examining the unique properties of
each material and the factors to consider when selecting mating fasteners for
specific needs.
Aluminum
Aluminum boasts the strength equivalent to mild steel but is only one-third of
the weight, making it an ideal choice for various applications. It demonstrates
remarkable resistance to corrosion in wet environments and is commonly employed
for fittings, hardware, and fasteners. Additionally, it possesses nonmagnetic
properties.
Brass
Brass, composed of approximately two-thirds copper and one-third zinc, is a
relatively softer material. It offers good resistance to rust and atmospheric
corrosion, making it suitable for use in gears, bearings, fasteners, and
valves. Furthermore, brass exhibits nonmagnetic characteristics.
Copper
Copper, known for its versatility and durability, finds applications in various
fields. Its distinctive color is particularly favored by artists and architects
for its decorative finish. This electrically conductive material boasts
excellent thermal properties, is nonmagnetic, and resists rust in wet
environments.
Stainless Steel
18-8 (303)
Type 303 stainless steel provides excellent corrosion resistance and is
resilient against chemicals, most dyes, food, and nitric acid. Widely used for
screws, bushings, nuts, and hardware, it may exhibit mild magnetic properties.
Stainless Steel
316 (316/316L)
Type 316 stainless steel surpasses Type 303 in terms of corrosion resistance.
It effectively resists saltwater, acids, chlorides, alkalis, and various
industrial solvents. This low-maintenance material is commonly utilized in
commercial kitchens and food processing, with a possibility of mild magnetic
behavior.
Stainless Steel
416
Type 416 stainless steel can achieve hardness up to Maximum Rockwell C40 after
heat treatment. It resists acids, alkalis, fresh water, and dry air, making it
a non-galling and hardenable material suitable for fittings, gears, shafts, and
screws. This type of stainless steel is magnetic.
Low Carbon Steel
Low Carbon steel is employed in numerous general-purpose applications. To
resist rust, it requires a finish such as black oxide treatment or zinc
plating. Commonly used for binding posts, bushings, washers, inserts, fittings,
screws, and nuts, this material exhibits magnetic properties.
If you need
assistance determining which type or material of mating fasteners works best for
your application, contact Mudge Fasteners
: https://www.mudgefasteners.com/news/materials-used-in-sex-bolts
0 Comments