Stainless in Salt Water Applications

[TerraSouth]

What spec should I put on my nuts, bolts and other structural steel components for salt water applications?

I design docks, piers and other structures in and around salt water. Just wondering what grade of stainless in most appropriate.

Thanks!

 

[TVP]

What strength level is required?

 

[unclesyd]

Here in the Panhandle of Florida 316 SS is the preferred fastener of choice. Be careful and check around as you don't need material certified to any standard. You will see a significant price difference.

Hot Dipped Galvanized is still used quite extensively for through bolting in pier construction in this area. Right now I would say it is the favorite by 2 to 1 over SS. 316 SS is the fastener material of choice for decking and planking.

 

[SlideRuleEra]

Stainless steel galling during installation of nuts & bolts can be a problem. Construction crews often do not take the steps to minimize it. Agree with unclesyd about hot dipped galvanized being preferable for typical applications.

http://www.SlideRuleEra.net

 

[magnetchief]

What sort of steps would you use to minimize galling?
We were having trouble with 2" dia 316 ss bolts.
We tried various anti sieze compounds but every now and then one sticks on us and we have to cut it off.

 

[SlideRuleEra]

magnetchief - Wrapping the bolt threads with Teflon tape (normally used to seal leaks on threaded pipe connections) works reasonably well.

http://www.SlideRuleEra.net

 

[Batif]

Terrasouth: What about using SS- Duplex grades known for higher chloride resistance.