The unique nature of stainless steel hardware makes it an ideal choice for hardware used in applications prone to corrosion or abuse such as coastal and high humidity regions, outdoor kitchens, commercial kitchens, commercial projects, public healthcare institutions, medical cleanrooms, or in marine applications such as on boats and yachts. We offer a range of cabinet hardware, screws, and fasteners, among other stainless hardware for such applications. Stainless steel’s strength, corrosion resistance, and versatility are renowned, but what is stainless steel, and what is it made of?
What is Stainless Steel Made of?
Stainless steel is a steel alloy with high percentages of iron, chromium, and nickel that resist corrosion. The higher the chromium content in stainless steel hardware, the stronger its corrosion resistance. Stainless steel can include additional materials, such as molybdenum, carbon, nitrogen, silicon, sulfur, aluminum, titanium, copper, selenium, or niobium. Stainless hardware must contain at least 10.5% chromium to be considered stainless.
The most widely known grade of stainless steel is type 304, which you’ll see anywhere. Type 316 has the addition of molybdenum, which aids better resistance to acid and chloride solutions (think salt, sodium chloride).
What is the Difference between 18-8 vs. 316 Fasteners and Screws?
Understanding the difference between 18-8 vs. 316 screws and fasteners helps you choose the right type of stainless hardware for your needs. 18-8 stainless steel refers to stainless hardware containing 18% chromium and 8% nickel. 18-8 stainless hardware is generally corrosion-resistant but will corrode when exposed to salt or other chlorides. Cabinet hardware made from 18-8 stainless steel is solid and long-lasting and some of the most budget-friendly types of stainless steel hardware.
In contrast, 316 stainless hardware includes 3% molybdenum and has high tensile strength. 316 stainless steel hardware is sometimes called marine-grade hardware, as it resists corrosion caused by saltwater and resists pitting. Of the two, 316 stainless steel hardware is more expensive than 18-8 stainless hardware.
What is the Best Use for Stainless Steel?
Because stainless steel hardware is easy to clean and sterilize, it is often used to make kitchen knobs and pulls and sub-zero and appliance pulls. It’s also a sustainable choice, as stainless hardware is almost 100% recyclable. Outside of hardware applications, stainless steel is used in architecture, surgery, chemical engineering, food and beverage applications, automotive, and aviation.
Where Can I Find Stainless Steel Hardware?
Now that you understand a little about what stainless steel is and does, it’s time to visit hardwarehut.com. We offer a large variety of products in type 304 and type 316 stainless steel, as well as other grades. You’ll find stainless steel cabinet knobs and pulls, hinges, appliance pulls, barn door track, door stops, hooks, closet rods & brackets, deadbolts, doorbell buttons, door lever sets, waste containers and trash grommets, house letters & numbers, kickplates, door pulls, catches, mail slots and boxes, tubing and railing, grab bars, shower seats, drawer slides, bath hardware, furniture feet and table legs, and towel warmers.
If you have any questions, please don’t hesitate to contact us or connect with on social media.
