At Empire Bolt & Screw, we supply customers nationwide with fasteners and hardware specifically designed for marine applications. Boats, trailers, and other marine equipment require fasteners that can withstand exposure to excessive moisture and harsh elements. We offer specialty bolts, trailer lug nuts, fender washers, self-drilling screws, and other standard and custom fasteners for the assembly and manufacture of marine products and components. We understand the necessity of specialty coatings, processes, and materials that offer corrosion protection to help prevent or delay the formation of rust. Whatever fasteners and hardware your marine application requires, you can count on Empire Bolt & Screw for fast shipping and excellent prices on marine fasteners.

Marine Fasteners and Hardware Options at Empire

We maintain a massive inventory of ready-to-ship fasteners and hardware for marine equipment. Our marine fasteners include machine screws, USS flat washers, split lock washers, nylon sealing washers, finished hex nuts, acorn nuts, wing nuts, and more. With a broad range of corrosion-resistant materials and thread options, we can supply you with the best marine fasteners for your application.

Common Material Types for Marine Equipment Fasteners

• Stainless Steel 304
• Stainless Steel 316
• Aluminum
• Brass
• Silicon Bronze

Thread Styles

• Coarse Threads
• Fine Threads
• Self Drilling Threads

What Classifies as a Marine-Grade Fastener?

In order for a fastener to be considered marine grade, it needs to be able to maintain its strength and mechanical properties even after extended exposure to marine environments. This durability is achieved by materials that resist the challenges associated with marine applications, primarily rust and corrosion due to saltwater exposure. Brass, aluminum, and stainless steel are often used to manufacture marine-grade fasteners due to their excellent corrosion-resistant properties. Grade 316 stainless steel is particularly popular for marine applications due to its high molybdenum content that improves resistance to chloride corrosion.

Choosing the Right Specialty Marine Fasteners for Your Application

Selecting the appropriate fastener for marine applications largely focuses on two primary factors: corrosion resistance and load capacity. Of course, like every fastening job, it is essential to choose fasteners with the proper thread, size, and style requirements for the application as well. But for marine applications, fasteners must be able to maintain their strength and durability in corrosive environments. If you use fasteners that are not corrosion-resistant, they could erode and fail over time.
For load capacity considerations, it's important to keep in mind that marine equipment often require wide range of fastening scenarios, ranging from simple low-stress fastening to highly demanding applications like trailer hookups and rigging hardware. For trailer applications, you'll need high-strength lug nuts and bolts that can withstand constant water exposure. Stainless steel or carbon steel with special coatings are often good options for these applications. When working with wood or composite materials that require less tensile strength, brass or aluminum fasteners might be a good choice, as they resist corrosion and prevent rust stains from the fasteners.

Maintenance and Longevity

You can also help extend the lifespan of your marine fasteners and prevent premature failure through regular maintenance. Be sure to inspect fasteners for signs of rust or loosening regularly. Applying anti-corrosion lubricants and sealants can further protect against damage.

Contact Us to Learn How We Can Be Your Supplier of Fasteners for Marine Equipment

If you're looking for a marine fastener supplier you can rely on for fast shipping and competitive pricing, Empire has you covered. Contact us today to learn more about our marine-grade fasteners. For pricing information, request a quote online. Empire Bolt & Screw is your source for superior quality fasteners and hardware for marine equipment.