*Stainless Steel Thread Galling
Thread galling seems to be most common with fittings and fasteners made
of stainless steel, aluminum, titanium and other alloys which
self-generate an oxide surface for corrosion protection. During
tightening, pressure builds up between the thread contact surfaces
where the oxides are removed and the metal can shear or lock together.
In an extreme case, galling can lead to seizing of the threaded joint.
Additional force can break the bolt or fitting. Experts say there are
three ways to reduce the chance of threads galling during assembly:
- By reducing the speed at which the fittings are assembled helps to
reduce the friction and heat generated that leads to a higher
likelihood of galling occurring.
- Using thread lubrication will help to reduce galling. Please refer
to the Related Products on this page, or click the links below of
products available on our website specifically rated for stainless
steel fitting assembly.
- If used together, different grades of stainless steel (304 and 316
are the most common) can reduce galling because each grade has a
different hardness and work-harden at different rates.
Products recommended for stainless steel fittings to reduce galling can
be found by clicking on the Related Products tab on this page.