Last Updated on July 1, 2020 by Marsh Fasteners
While stainless steel is strong and corrosion resistant, the strata into which fittings and fasteners are anchored may not be as hardy. The best way to make your stainless steel fasteners last longer is to ensure that the fasteners find a stable, solid foundation. The next habit to make sure fasteners last as long as they should, is to select a proper grade of corrosion resistant stainless steel. If you are uncertain about the quality of stainless steel needed for your project, you should ask your window solution experts.
These good habits will prevent untimely wear and tear of your fasteners and maintain the long-lasting characteristics of stainless steel:
Cleaning and Environment
Exposure to moisture and contaminating particles lead to the premature replacement of your stainless-steel fastening units. To increase the durability of these fasteners:
- Use appropriate cleaning practices
- Employ a vapor management system
- Do not allow dust to settle on the surface for too long a time.
Maintenance
What sounds worse than the grating and scratching of sticky sliding surfaces of fasteners? In the industry, this is known as “galling”. It can be avoided by lubricating the stainless steel fasteners.
Restoration
“Contrary to carbon steel, the presence of a minimum of 10.5 % chromium in the stainless steel gives it the property of corrosion resistance. Indeed, on contact with oxygen, a chromium oxide layer is formed on the surface of the material.” This passive layer is protective, decorative, and/ or functional.
Electropolishing is a technique that provides the best passivization- restoring the surface to the original characteristics with protective oxide film to counter the effect of corrosion on fasteners made of stainless steel.
Include these habits in your home maintenance schedule, and you will enjoy fine-looking and functional stainless steel fasteners for years to come. Contact Marsh Fasteners for more information now.
