Stainless-Steel Anchor Solutions
When it comes to anchorage, selecting a material that can withstand the environment is critical. Proper protection comes from materials that are capable of resisting corrosion while maintaining their strength.
When designing strong and durable anchorage solutions for corrosive environments, the two most-commonly considered materials are types 303/304 and 316 stainless steel. And while type 316 stainless steel is often specified due to its superior corrosion-resistant properties, types 303/304 may be sufficient in many applications where environmental conditions are less extreme.
Type 303/304
A cost-effective solution for less extreme applications where the environment is often wet, moist or damp. Not recommended for use near ocean fronts or where corrosive agents are present.
- Stadium seating
- Curtain walls
- Clean rooms
- Central utility plant facilities
- Food-processing facilities
- Ledger bolts for decks
- DOT signs and fixtures
- Agricultural facilities
- Cooling towers
- Pulp and paper mills
- Scaffolding
- Parking structures
- Tunnels
- Balconies
- Refineries
- Breweries and wineries
- Fencing
- Outdoor railings
Type 316
The optimal choice for applications in corrosive or extreme environments such as coastal locations exposed to salt air or salt water, those where de-icing salts are used or when chemical or corrosive solutions are present.
- Wastewater treatment
- Fertilizer storage buildings
- Sill plates in coastal environments
- Marine/port restoration
- Light rail (transportation)
- Parking structures
- Tunnels
- Balconies in coastal environments
- Outdoor railings in coastal environments
According to the Specialty Steel Industry of North America (SSINA), not all stainless steels are non-magnetic. Some of our products utilize the austenitic or 300 series stainless steels, namely grades 304 and 316, and these stainless steel mechanical anchors may exhibit some degree of magnetism due to the cold working process during manufacturing. These magnetic properties are typically confined to small, localized areas on the surface of the anchor and not throughout the entire anchor cross-section. This is a known phenomenon for stainless steel anchors and does not impact the final product’s chemical composition, mechanical properties, or corrosion resistance, nor does it disqualify these products from being designated as grades 304 or 316 stainless steel. Additional information is available at the SSINA Technical Resources site located at SSINA.com.
Type 410
Considered to have a relatively low level of corrosion resistance compared to other stainless steel grades, it is the best choice for products that need to be hardened in order for threads to cut into concrete.
Please Note: SS Type 410 is magnetic.
Stainless-Steel Mechanical Anchors
Understanding Corrosion
Learn more about the corrosion issue and general guidelines and approaches for the selection of Simpson Strong-Tie products for various construction conditions