Tensile strength is one of the most important mechanical indicators of stainless steel fasteners. It refers to the maximum stress that the fastener can bear before breaking under tensile load. Different grades of stainless steel fasteners have different tensile strength ranges. For example, 304 stainless steel fasteners typically have a tensile strength of 520MPa or higher, while 316 stainless steel fasteners can reach a tensile strength of around 550MPa. This high tensile strength enables them to withstand significant pulling forces in structural connections, ensuring the stability and safety of the assembled components.
Yield strength is another crucial mechanical property, representing the stress at which the stainless steel fastener begins to undergo plastic deformation. When the applied stress exceeds the yield strength, the fastener will produce permanent deformation and cannot return to its original shape. 304 stainless steel fasteners generally have a yield strength of at least 205MPa, and 316 stainless steel fasteners have a slightly higher yield strength, usually around 210MPa. This property is essential for applications where maintaining the integrity of the connection is critical, as it indicates the maximum load the fastener can withstand without losing its functional shape.
Hardness reflects the ability of stainless steel fasteners to resist indentation and wear. It is usually measured using methods such as Brinell, Rockwell, or Vickers hardness tests. 304 stainless steel fasteners typically have a Rockwell hardness of around HRB 85 - 95, while 316 stainless steel fasteners have a similar hardness range. Proper hardness ensures that the fasteners can resist wear during installation and use, maintaining their structural integrity and connection performance for a long time.
Ductility is the ability of stainless steel fasteners to undergo plastic deformation without breaking. It is usually expressed by elongation, which is the percentage of the increase in length of the fastener at break relative to its original length. 304 and 316 stainless steel fasteners have good ductility, with an elongation of more than 40% in most cases. This property allows the fasteners to absorb energy during installation, such as when being tightened, and reduces the risk of brittle fracture, making them more reliable in applications subject to dynamic loads.
Impact toughness refers to the ability of stainless steel fasteners to resist fracture under sudden impact loads. It is particularly important for fasteners used in environments with vibration or impact. Stainless steel fasteners, especially those made of austenitic stainless steels like 304 and 316, exhibit good impact toughness even at low temperatures, which ensures their performance and safety in harsh working conditions.
In summary, the excellent mechanical properties of stainless steel fasteners, including high tensile strength, appropriate yield strength, suitable hardness, good ductility and impact toughness, make them reliable choices in various industrial applications. These properties ensure that stainless steel fasteners can meet the requirements of different connection scenarios, providing stable and long - lasting connection performance.