Marine fasteners and fixings play an important role in ensuring the safety and reliability of ships and offshore structures. They are designed to ensure the harsh marine environment, which includes saltwater, humidity, and severe temperatures. In this blog post, we’ll explore the many types of marine fasteners and fixings and their applications.
1. Stainless Steel
Stainless steel fasteners are the most common type of fastener used in the marine industry. They come in a variety of grades, including 304, 316, and 316L, and are extremely corrosion resistant. The fitting of deck hardware, mounting hatches and portholes, and securing rigging are just a few uses for stainless steel fasteners.
2. Titanium Fasteners
Titanium fasteners are lightweight, highly corrosion-resistant, and have excellent strength-to-weight ratios. They are frequently employed in situations where weight loss is essential, such racing yachts and high-performance vessels. Additionally, strong corrosion resistance is needed in some applications, such as offshore oil and gas drilling rigs, where titanium fasteners are employed.
3. Monel Fasteners
An extremely corrosion-resistant nickel-copper alloy called monel is frequently utilised in marine applications. In saltwater applications, such as the mounting of keels, rudders, and propellers, monel fasteners are employed.
4. Bronze Fasteners
Bronze is a copper and tin alloy that is frequently used in marine applications because it has strong corrosion resistance. Bronze fasteners are used in applications where high strength is required, such as securing deck hardware and attaching keel bolts.
5. Nylon Fasteners
Nylon fasteners are lightweight, corrosion-resistant, and non-conductive. They are frequently employed in electrical applications, such as holding down cable clamps and wire. In non-load-bearing tasks like installing interior trim and panels, nylon fasteners are also employed.
6. Epoxy Adhesives
Epoxy adhesives are frequently used in marine applications to join materials, such as attaching carbon fibre or fibreglass to a deck or hull. Excellent bonding power and good water and chemical resistance are two qualities of epoxy adhesives.
7. Sealants
Sealants are used to seal joints and prevent water from entering the interior of a vessel or offshore structure. They are commonly used in applications such as sealing portholes, windows and hatches. In marine applications, silicone and polysulfide sealants are frequently utilised.
Conclusion
In summary, marine fasteners and fixes are essential for maintaining the dependability and safety of ships and offshore buildings. The application and the environment in which it will be utilised determine the appropriate fastener or fastening to use. To provide the best performance and longevity in the tough sea environment, the proper material and grade must be used.
If you’re unsure what you need, just contact a member of our friendly and knowledgeable team at Leyton Fasteners. We can talk you through your options and source even the most left-field of fasteners – chances are we already stock whatever you’re looking for!
So either come down to visit the trade counter or pick up the phone and call us on 0151 355 8045 to discuss your marine fastener requirements in more detail.
