Q: We have some machinery operating in salt fog with sea spray as well. Salt corrosion is an issue but most importantly I need bolts with a yield strength over 100ksi. Any thoughts?
A: For this environment you have two options. First, with a yield strength of 110ksi I’d suggest Monel K500 bolts. These bolts are age hardened which makes them very strong. Monel K500 bolts works very well in salt water and air; in fact Monel K500 bolts are one of the go-to seawater resistant materials for naval use. The only caution I would say is if you are using it in stagnant water, Monel bolts can be attacked by pitting. The second option which offers higher strength and corrosion resistance would be Titanium Grade 5 bolts. Titanium bolts delivery about 138ksi in yield and are perhaps the most corrosion resistant material to salt water environments.