How to Prevent Galling Steel
Galling is when two metal surfaces slide into one another under high pressure and as a result, the pieces freeze up against the nut's threads and break off. Steel alloy fasteners are especially vulnerable to galling, although it can happen with other metals and alloys. After the fastener is tightened, pressure increases between the threads and the oxide coating is broken down, this is when the damage occurs. However, there are ways to to aid in the prevention of galling in steel surfaces.
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Instructions
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Apply a polytetrafluoro ethylene-based coating to the stainless steel fasteners. This coating greatly decreases the galling and friction in alloy threads.
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Lubricate the threads with any lubricant that is specifically meant for alloys or metals. This will reduce the friction between the surfaces, which is the main reason for galling. Applying a lubricant to the threads is one of the most effective ways to reduce friction.
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Reduce the RPM speed during the installation, which can decrease or completely eliminate galling. If the RPMs increase, more heat and friction will be produced, which will drive up the likelihood of galling.
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Select different alloy grades for the nut and the bolt, which will decrease galling. The materials that will have contact with one another should have different hardnesses, because this reduces friction.
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Reduce friction by using metals with a smoother surface texture such as magnesium or nickel alloys.
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Tips & Warnings
The torque and tension can be affected when using a lubrication.
Lubricants should not be used in steel fasteners used in food processing equipment.
