Fasteners play a critical role in our daily lives, underpinning the stability and integrity of every structure. As the backbone of buildings and construction projects, their reliability over time is paramount. However, finding trustworthy providers who offer dependable fastener products can be challenging. At Engineering Edge Singapore, we address this need by offering a comprehensive range of coatings designed for every application, backed by warranties that ensure exceptional value for your investment. In this blog post, we will explore the significance of coatings, the various types we offer, and how we maintain our commitment to delivering top-quality fasteners at the best possible value.

Uncoated fasteners are highly susceptible to corrosion, which can significantly shorten their lifespan when exposed to varying environmental conditions. This deterioration can compromise the integrity of structures and pose safety risks due to inadequate support. Corrosion occurs naturally as metal degrades when it interacts with environmental elements such as oxygen. Coatings play a crucial role in protecting fasteners from corrosion and rust, preserving their strength and ensuring the structural integrity and longevity of the building.

Our diverse range of coatings offers solutions for every environment, from economical options suitable for indoor applications to more robust coatings designed to withstand harsh outdoor conditions.

In the following section, I will provide a detailed explanation of each of our coatings.

The OC Series provides an economical solution for effective anti-corrosion protection of fasteners. It features a zinc-based coating topped with a ceramic base layer, ensuring strong adhesion through a precise curing process. This series is ideal for mild indoor conditions and delivers reliable performance at an affordable price. Laboratory tests confirm that it can withstand at least 500 hours (approximately 3 weeks) in a salt spray chamber, making it suitable for environments where moderate protection is required. Below, you will find a graphic illustrating the microstructure of the OC Series coating.

The SR Series offers a cost-effective yet robust anti-corrosion solution, favored for its excellent value. It consists of an organic zinc-based coating layered with a dense ceramic topcoat. This combination is specifically designed for mild outdoor conditions. Extensive laboratory testing has demonstrated that the SR Series can endure at least 1000 hours (approximately 1 and a half months) in a salt spray test chamber and withstand 5 cycles in a sulfur dioxide test chamber. This makes it a reliable choice for environments with moderate outdoor exposure. A graphic of the microstructure of the SR Series coating is provided below.

The CS Series is renowned for its superior anti-corrosion protection, making it a popular choice for outdoor applications. It utilizes a high-density zinc foundation coupled with an aluminum alloy topcoat. This strong combination ensures excellent durability and resistance to harsh conditions. Laboratory tests have shown that the CS Series performs well with at least 1000 hours (approximately 1 and a half months) in a salt spray test chamber, 1000 hours (about 1 and a half months) in a humidity test chamber, 2000 hours (about 2 and a half months) in a UV condensation chamber, and 15 cycles in a sulfur dioxide test chamber. Below, you will find a graphic depicting the microstructure of the CS Series coating.

The HD Series represents the pinnacle of anti-corrosion coating options for carbon steel fasteners, offering exceptional quality and durability. It features a high-density zinc foundation reinforced with a dense aluminum alloy layer, making it particularly suitable for the most challenging outdoor environments. Laboratory testing confirms that the HD Series demonstrates resilience, withstanding at least 2000 hours (approximately 2 and a half months) in a salt spray test chamber, 1000 hours (about 1 and a half months) in a humidity test chamber, 2000 hours (approximately 2 and a half months) in a UV condensation chamber, and enduring 20 cycles in a sulfur dioxide test chamber. A graphic of the microstructure of the HD Series coating is provided below.

The M3 Series is widely recognized for its exceptional performance in outdoor applications, particularly in combating salt contamination. Although it is a more expensive option, it excels in harsh environments. The M3 Series utilizes a mechanical plating process involving tin and zinc, reinforced by a ceramic-based topcoat. Laboratory tests confirm its durability, demonstrating endurance of at least 1000 hours (approximately 1 and a half months) in a salt spray test chamber, 1000 hours (about 1 and a half months) in a humidity test chamber, 2000 hours (about 2 and a half months) in a UV condensation chamber, and 15 cycles in a sulfur dioxide test chamber. A graphic of the microstructure of the M3 Series coating is shown below.

The M4 Series offers unparalleled anti-corrosion performance and is highly recommended for extremely harsh environments. It utilizes a mechanical plating process involving tin and zinc, complemented by a dense aluminum alloy topcoat. Despite its higher cost, the M4 Series provides superior durability. Laboratory tests reveal it can withstand at least 2000 hours (approximately 2 and a half months) in a salt spray test chamber, 1000 hours in a humidity test chamber, 2000 hours (approximately 2 and a half months) in a UV condensation chamber, and 20 cycles in a sulfur dioxide test chamber. Below, you will find a graphic illustrating the microstructure of the M4 Series coating.

The solution to corroded fasteners varies depending on the extent of corrosion and the specific application. In many cases, cleaning the surface corrosion through methods like wire brushing or chemical treatments. However, it could take up plenty of man hours for your business or projects. The most effective and sustainable way would be to invest in protective coatings that prevent further corrosion. For severe cases, replacing fasteners with corrosion-resistant materials or coated options may be necessary.

Here at Engineering Edge Singapore, we provide CORROSHIELD^® fasteners that are designed to withstand harsh environments without corroding. Download our CORROSHIELD^® brochure here. Our innovative coatings also cater to various conditions, ensuring long-lasting performance. Take a look at our coating guide here. Additionally, our fasteners undergo rigorous testing, including Salt Spray Tests, to validate their durability.

The Salt Spray Test simulates a harsh and corrosive environment. It replicates the harsh conditions of saltwater exposure over time. The fasteners are placed inside a chamber where a salt solution is sprayed onto its surface, creating a corrosive atmosphere. This test aims to evaluate the fastener's resistance to corrosion by simulating the effects of saltwater, which is known to accelerate corrosion processes. Over the testing period, which can vary depending on standards and requirements, the fastener's performance is closely monitored to assess its durability and suitability for use in corrosive environments.

Visit our blog to learn more about the Salt Spray Test. Additionally, we conduct various other tests to guarantee the durability and quality of our fasteners. Read more on Blog Testing Fastener's Durability here.