Engineered Coatings for Fasteners

This project will evaluate the cost effectiveness and long term durability of fasteners with different types of engineered coatings. Various fasteners with engineered coatings will be exposed to salt spray and other laboratory tests to confirm their reported corrosion resistance. They will also be installed in several facilities in differing environments, but primarily in severe environments to verify actual performance in the field from both corrosion resistance and electrical conductivity standpoints. Performance will be compared side by side with commonly used carbon steel, galvanized, brass, and stainless steel fasteners. Where practicable, field installations and laboratory tests will also monitor the impact of mechanical action on corrosion resistance (i.e. installation, removal, and reinstallation).