FREE UK DELIVERY
On orders over £60 (Trade £95)
The importance of high-performance Stainless-Steel Hinges
25 June 2024
When it comes to choosing the right hinges for your project, the material can make a significant difference in terms of durability, appearance, and functionality.
Stainless-steel hinges are a popular choice due to their strength, corrosion resistance, and aesthetic appeal. But when exactly should you use stainless-steel hinges?
When to use Stainless-Steel Hinges
While many more low-cost hinges are constructed from either brass or mild steel it's crucial to consider the material's suitability before buying. Here are some key questions we advise customers to ponder:
Proximity to coastal regions: areas by the coast often have salty air, accelerating the rusting process for typical steel hinges. Signs of rust can be evident within just two years of installation.
Intended usage: Will the hinges be exposed to outdoor elements, such as on opening out French doors? If they'll remain sheltered under a porch, the exposure level is considered standard.
Budget considerations: What financial resources are you willing to allocate for hinges? Internally, cheaper options may be viable, however, external doors and windows may require a higher specification.
These factors heavily influence the decision to opt for stainless steel hinges. Compared to typical steel hinges with applied finishes, stainless steel variants can last three to four times longer. If you live near the coast, anticipate exposure to elements, and prioritise long-lasting quality, investing in our stainless steel hinge selection is advisable. Although stainless steel hinges often come at a premium, viewing this expenditure as a saving in the future. However, our stainless steel hinges are very competitively priced.
Material Matters: Grades of Stainless Steel for Hinges
Less expensive hinges typically consist of brass with a polished chrome or satin chrome finish. It's advisable to avoid using these hinges on external doors due to their susceptibility to corrosion and the risk of snapping when subjected to heavy loads. Not all stainless-steel hinges are created equal either. The grade of stainless-steel can impact its performance in different environments. There are over 150 different grades of stainless steel, but they are commonly grouped into five main families based on their metallurgical structure and composition. Austenitic Stainless Steel is one such family and is used for hinges with common grades including: 201, 304 & 316. The higher the number the higher the corrosion resistance.
For environments with higher levels of moisture, such as coastal areas or marine applications, Grade 316 stainless steel is recommended. Alternatively, our Atom hinges, which may be a lower grade stainless steel, have a coating to achieve the same corrosion resistance score as more expensive 316 hinges.
Corrosion Resistance Grades of Stainless Steel
EN 1935:2002 is a European standard that specifies requirements and test methods for building hardware used in doors, windows, and other construction applications. The corrosion resistance section of EN 1935:2002 outlines the criteria that building hardware must meet to ensure adequate protection against corrosion in different environmental conditions.
The neutral salt spray test, also known as the salt fog test, is commonly used to assess the corrosion resistance of building hardware. Hardware specimens are exposed to a salt spray mist in a controlled chamber for a specified duration, and their corrosion resistance is evaluated based on the extent of corrosion observed.
The standard is structured into 8 digits, each representing different aspects of building hardware performance. Digit 6 of EN 1935:2002 focuses on corrosion resistance, with Grade 0 having no defined corrosion resistance, Grade 1 offering mild resistance, Grade 2 providing moderate resistance, Grade 3 ensuring high resistance, and Grade 4 offering very high resistance.
Stainless-Steel Hinges Available from SD Hardware
The SOX Atom:
SOX is our brand of stainless-steel window and door hardware. A part of this range includes the SOX Atom hinge which is constructed from 201 stainless steel and has a EN 1935:2002 Grade 4 corrosion resistance. What sets the Atom apart is that it is also coated for greater resistance to corrosion.
It’s a three-knuckle hinge, which houses polymer bearings. The advantage of using polymer over the traditional ball bearings is any grease seepage should stop. Standard Ball bearing hinges also have a steel ball bearing which can cause corrosion over time even on the highest-grade stainless-steel hinges [see image below]
A Stainless-Steel Hinge with seepage and corrosion
SOX 316 Hinge:
This SOX 316 Stainless Steel hinge is an external grade product that has thrust bearings instead of ball bearings. Triple knuckle with phosphor bronze washers, means there is no lubricant leakage and the 316 grade Stainless steel will not tea stain like other less graded hinges. It is an extremely high-quality hinge recommended for external door applications.
Conclusion
While stainless-steel hinges may come at a premium, the long-term savings in maintenance, replacement, and peace of mind far outweigh the initial cost. So, whether you're buying new or buying replacements, choose stainless steel hinges from us for unmatched quality and reliability.
Please contact us if you have any questions whatsoever about the ideal stainless steel hinge for your project.