Staples are typically used for wood projects, furniture assembly, and other joinery applications. Even though there are various types of materials, the typical staple is made from a thin steel wire band that is bent into a U or an inverted U using a stamping machine. The two legs are also cut at the ends to create a sharp chisel or divergent point that aids in penetrating the wood.
Here, we will go over the history of staples and what are the most common materials used for their construction.
When Were Staples Invented?
People used gluing, sewing, and wax stamps to attach pages together in the past because staples and staplers were not yet invented. Although these methods were sturdy, they were ineffective in holding together a large stack of papers as a single document.
The first stapler was created in 1866 by Novelty Manufacturing Company after King Louis XV asked for a more effective way to fasten paper. Initially, it could only hold one staple made of gold at a time. However, over time, staplers and staples have significantly improved.
In 1866, while another design was being developed and patented, George McGill also worked on his invention. He developed a bendable paper fastener known as a staple and got a license for his invention in 1867. The stapler was introduced to the market just two years later, but reloading the unit was a frequent task. However, in 1879, patents for McGill's Single-Stroke Staple Press were issued. This machine could both insert and clinch the staple.
Various versions of this invention were developed by different individuals in the late 1800s. However, in 1895, the E.H. Hotchkiss Company in Connecticut created a more advanced machine that we currently identify as a stapler. It utilized a strip of staples linked together to address the reloading problem.
What Are Construction Staples Made Of?
Staples used for construction are typically made from either steel, aluminum, or stainless steel. Let's take a look at them more in-depth:
Steel
Construction staples are typically made of steel. Steel is a common choice for construction staples due to its strength and durability. It provides the rigidity and reliability required for fastening materials in construction applications.
Stainless Steel
Stainless steel staples are made from a type of steel alloy that contains a significant amount of chromium. This composition gives stainless steel its unique properties, including excellent corrosion resistance. Stainless steel staples are highly resistant to rust, tarnish, and other forms of corrosion, making them ideal for outdoor or high-humidity environments.
Aluminum
In contrast, aluminum staples are created using lightweight and easily molded metal. They are often utilized when weight is a factor or the materials being stapled can be damaged by rust or staining. Aluminum staples are corrosion-resistant due to the protective oxide layer that naturally forms on its surface.
Get the Staples You Need With Us
Staples are an essential tool for woodworking and other projects. They were first invented in 1866 and have since been improved. Today, staples are typically made of steel, aluminum, or stainless steel, depending on the application they will be used for. If you are looking for the perfect material for your construction project, we at FastenerUSA have different staples available or if you are looking for a specific type of staples with our “Find Fastener For My Tool” you can find what you need.
If you are a contractor or a construction company, and you want to buy in bulk, please contact us to see if discounts and special offers are available to help you save money. Contact us today and get free shipping on your next order!
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