The materials used in hardware play a crucial role in determining the durability, strength, and appearance of products. The most commonly used materials for locks and other hardware components include stainless steel, zinc alloy, steel, aluminum alloy, and copper. Each material has its unique advantages. Understanding the characteristics of these materials is essential for selecting the right hardware for various applications, ensuring optimal performance and longevity. In this article, we will explore the key properties, advantages, and uses of these materials in the hardware industry.
What is Steel?
Steel is an iron-carbon alloy with a carbon content ranging from 0.021% to 2.11%. It is commonly referred to as “steel” when combined with iron.
Common Steel Grades
In the hardware industry, commonly used steel grades for locks include ordinary carbon structural steels Q195 and Q235. These steels are typically rolled into high-precision thin sheets or strips and are mainly used for cold stamping components. They are commonly processed into lock bodies, escutcheons, and internal transmission parts for locks.
Stainless Steel
Stainless steel is a type of steel that resists corrosion from air, steam, water, and weak corrosive media, as well as from chemical agents like acids, alkalis, and salts. Chromium is the key element that imparts corrosion resistance to stainless steel.
Advantages of Stainless Steel
1. It is rust-resistant and highly resistant to acids and alkalis.
2.It offers excellent hardness and rigidity.
3.Precision casting costs are low.
4.It is highly resistant to high temperatures.
In the manufacturing of door lock hardware, SDH uses SUS304 material to manufacture such as hinges, lock bodies, and handles. This ensures excellent corrosion resistance and long-lasting performance.
Copper
Copper can be classified into brass, cupronickel, and bronze based on its alloy composition.
Applications of Brass
Common types of brass used in locks include:
- H65 – For stamped parts, such as copper ball handles.
- H62 – Commonly used for key blanks.
- H62 – Commonly used for lock faceplates.
- HPb59-1 – Commonly used for lock cylinders and keyheads. It has the advantages of high hardness, corrosion resistance, and affordability, and is suitable for lock cylinder materials.
Advantages of Copper
- Easy to process.
- Highly resistant to rust.
- Superior electroplating results compared to other metals.
- Excellent conductivity.Copper scrap has high value.
Zinc Alloy
Zinc alloy is a widely used metal material in locks, composed of zinc as the base element with other alloys added. Due to its low cost, zinc alloy often serves as a substitute for copper in various applications. The most commonly used type is Zamak 3.
Zamak 3: Offers excellent flowability and mechanical properties.
SDH uses high-quality, reliable 3# zinc alloy to manufacture premium 3D adjustable concealed hinges, zinc alloy handles, and other products, maximizing product performance.
Advantages of Zinc Alloy
- Affordable price.
- Good flowability when melted, making it easy to cast.
- Moderate hardness, easy to polish.
- Easy to electroplate.
- Does not absorb iron, preventing corrosion during casting and mold adhesion.
- Low melting point, facilitating easy die-casting.
Aluminum Alloy
Aluminum alloy is a general term for alloys based on aluminum. It has a low density but relatively high strength, comparable to or exceeding that of high-quality steel. It offers excellent plasticity, can be processed into various profiles, and has outstanding electrical conductivity, thermal conductivity, and corrosion resistance. It is widely used in industry, with consumption second only to steel.
Advantages of Aluminum Alloy
- Low cost.
- Stable properties, with its surface oxide film highly resistant to corrosion.
- Can be finished with various wood grain patterns.
- High strength, good plasticity, and can be processed into various profiles.
- Excellent electrical conductivity, thermal conductivity, and corrosion resistance.
Applications
Common uses of aluminum alloy in door and window hardware include:
- Door and Window Frames: Aluminum alloy is commonly used for door and window frames, such as in office aluminum doors and windows.
- Door and Window Accessories: Many hardware accessories, such as hinges, locks, window supports, tracks, and door closers, are made from aluminum alloy. Its corrosion resistance makes it ideal for these components, which are often exposed to external environments, reducing maintenance needs.
- Sliding Tracks and Rollers: Aluminum alloy is wear-resistant. In sliding doors or windows, aluminum alloy tracks and roller systems enable smooth movement while minimizing damage caused by friction.
Conclusion
Each of the materials mentioned above serves a distinct purpose in the hardware industry. If you have any questions about selecting the right product, feel free to consult SDH professionals for expert advice.
Abby Lee
Email: abby.lee@euprotek.com
Tel/Whatsapp: +8613605404113
