When it comes to fasteners for your next project, you have several options. This extends beyond the choice of nails, screws, and staples. You also have a choice in metal. For many, stainless steel nails are the right option. As you consider all of your options, let's look further at stainless steel as well as go a bit into more detail about how it reacts to aluminum.

What is Stainless Steel?

Stainless steel isn't a natural element found in nature; it is man made. Stainless steel is an iron and chromium alloy. This composition prevents the iron from rusting and also provides heat-resistant properties. Stainless steel's resistance to rusting results from the presence of chromium in the alloy. Chromium forms a passive film that protects the underlying material from corrosion attack, and can even self-heal in the presence of oxygen!

What is Aluminum?

Aluminum, on the other hand, is not only natural but is the most widespread metal on Earth! Aluminium is a silvery-white metal, the 13 element in the periodic table. It has the symbol Al. Aluminium visually resembles silver, both in its color and in its great ability to reflect light. It is soft, non-magnetic, and ductile.

Why Can't You Use Stainless Steel and Aluminum Together?

Let's say you want to nail an aluminum roof onto a new tool shed. Stainless steel nails are the way to go, right? Not quite. 

Stainless steel is very strong and aluminum is weak. Will using them together make aluminum stronger? Actually, the opposite happens. When aluminum and stainless steel are used in an assembly together, the electrons from the aluminum will begin to transfer into the stainless steel. This results in the aluminum weakening. This weakened aluminum causes it to deteriorate at a much faster rate. You don't want this!

When aluminum makes contact with stainless steel fasteners, corrosion can occur. This is known as "galvanic corrosion." Galvanic corrosion occurs when two materials, an anode and a cathode, come into contact with each other and an electrolyte. Electrolytes can be environmental factors such as humidity or rainwater. If you live in a wet, warm climate like Florida or Louisiana, this is bound to happen. When working with a marine, salt water environment, you even need to consider the type of stainless steel you are using.

In a case like this, you'll want to consider a different type of nail. Copper nails are a great solution worth looking into. You need the right items, at the right price. You also want them to be shipped to you very quickly. This can be done when you shop online through Fastener USA. With any additional questions, reach out and ask!