Technical Questions – FAQ’s

  • A286 Cryogenic Usage - Q: I have an deep space application that may experience varying temperatures from extreme highs as well as cryogenic. I’ve been told about A286, but can it be used at cryogenic temperatures too?   A: Yes, A286 can be used at cryogenic temperatures down to -320 where it will remain ductile and offer excellent strength, […]
  • Relationship Between Tensile Strength and Hardness - Q: How does the tensile strength of a metal compare to its hardness?   A: Ok there are a few questions here so let’s start with the strength and hardness comparison first. Tensile strength by definition is the amount of stress a material can handle before it will fail – […]
  • A286 Bolts per AMS 5737 Compared to AMS 5732  - Q: What is the difference between A286 per AMS 5737 and AMS 5732?Q: What is the difference between A286 per AMS 5737 and AMS 5732? A: A286 is an age hardened material. These AMS – aerospace standards – pertain to how the A286 material is solution treated and hardened: • […]
  • Mechanical Properties of A286 - Q: What are the mechanical properties of A286 Bolts? A:  Below are the general properties of A286 bolts in terms of high temperature usage and strength. This can change though depending on the AMS or ASTM specifications.  A286 tensile strength 120ksi, 160ksi (cold worked) A286 yield strength 85 ksi, 120 (cold […]
  • How to Prevent Thread Galling - Q: I think my bolts are galling to the heat exchanger I’m working with because now they won’t budge at all. Guessing I will have to break them to get them out. I don’t want to have this keep happening – so is there any way to prevent this from happening in […]
  • Materials Prone to Thread Galling - Q: I’ve had trouble with galling in the past and seem to be wasting a lot of bolts, due to this. I’ thinking maybe that I’m using the wrong material – so are there  specific materials better than others to help prevent galling? A: Though galling can happen with almost any […]
  • What is Thread Galling? - Q: I’ve heard of thread galling but am not exactly sure what it is. Can you explain?   A: Galling happens when a bolt is over-tightened and the threads seize together creating what we call a “cold weld”. The friction from fastening actually causes the threads to heat up and […]
  • Difference between Galvanic Corrosion & Galling - Q: Are galvanic corrosion and galling the same? A: Galvanic corrosion and galling are actually very different. One causes accelerated corrosion while the other cause the threads to seize. Galvanic corrosion is when two dissimilar metals are brought in contact with a solution or moisture – most commonly, salt water. […]
  • Non-Conductive Screws - Q: I’m involved in is currently looking at your non-conductive fasteners to isolate an SMA Connector. But have several questions for finding the right solution regarding torque, preload heating and cooling, and locking features. A: Thanks for all the questions and interest. I will answer all your questions: How is torque […]
  • Finishes to Prevent Bolt Thread Galling - Q: Do you have any finishes that you can recommend to add to the studs/nuts to prevent galling? A: Regarding galling there are a few things that could be done depending on your application’s needs. 1) The easiest and cheapest solution is to use an anti-seizing lubricant. We sell one that might […]