SS Screws safe around SW?

[globaldesigns]

Originally Posted by Reef Pilot

Is it safe to use stainless steel machine screws in a sump area? They won't actually be in the water, but will likely get wet from time to time.

Or do I need to get titanium or plastic screws (do they even make those)? And if so, where in Greater Vancouver (preferably Langley) could I find these?

I would think you would be fine. Stainless Steel doesn't rust.

I have had stainless steel clamps used in my water, without issue. So outside, I would think would be ok.

[lastlight]

I've got a pair of gear clamps on my return pump (pond pumps don't plumb nice) and the bottom one is not submerged but is most definitely rusting. I really should do something about it. I'm not sure if these are described as stainless steel or not but this might be useful to you if they are!

[mark]

depends on the type of SS

[gregzz4]

Originally Posted by lastlight

I've got a pair of gear clamps on my return pump (pond pumps don't plumb nice) and the bottom one is not submerged but is most definitely rusting. I really should do something about it. I'm not sure if these are described as stainless steel or not but this might be useful to you if they are!

Hey Brett,
If just your 'screws' are rusting, you may have bought HS clamps. HAS clamps have a stainless screw, not steel. You can also get nice full stainless from marine outlets that don't stretch or cut the hose.
Something like these works nice
Bad image, but the gear 'teeth' are raised, not perforated.

[paddyob]

Originally Posted by globaldesigns

I would think you would be fine. Stainless Steel doesn't rust.

I have had stainless steel clamps used in my water, without issue. So outside, I would think would be ok.

Yes it does. Prolonged exposure to SW will damage and rust SS.

I had a filter with a SS bar on it that rusted out... And yes it came on the filter.

Higher grade SS would probably be better. But I guess I can't vouch for grade used in steel screws. But I guess there has to be screws ok for SW as our pumps and whatnot have screws.... Maybe coated SS?


Hmmm... Now I want to know.