You make bolts from stainless steel when you are very concerned about corrosion. These fasteners are much more expensive than a typical bolt so they are only used when their cost is offset by other considerations. Even in the world of stainless steel bolts you have to make a choice between 18-8 stainless steel bolts and 316 stainless steel bolts.
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What is the difference between 18-8 stainless steel bolts and 316 stainless steel bolts?
316 stainless steel bolts use additional amounts of nickel and molybdenum for increased resistance to chlorides and sulfates (salts, salt water).
Where or where are 316 stainless steel bolts most often used?
316 stainless steel bolts are often used in food processing, marinas, photographic works, chemical refineries, ink, textile, bleach and rubber manufacturing.
The FDA will often require 316 bolts be used on food handling equipment. Under some conditions, meat, blood and even items such as mayonnaise will pit 18-8 bolts. When in doubt you need to check with your local FDA representative.
A 316 stainless bolt will cost more than an 18-8 fastener of the same size but will have the same strength. The 316 stainless fasteners are just more corrosion resistant in certain environments.
How do you tell a 316 stainless steel bolt from an 18-8 stainless steel bolt?
You can tell the difference between the two types of stainless steel bolts by their Headmarks.
Stainless steel fasteners in the early days were not marked. The first markings were the 90-degree opposing lines. Now, you will most often see these fasteners marked with the ASTM F593 head marks. These are F593C and F593D for 18-8 and F593G and F593H for 316.
Under the A193 specifications (often found around oil fields) you may see the use of B8 for 304 and B8A for 316. Under the Unified numbering system you will see bolts marked as the specific series such as S 30400 for a 304 series bolt.
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