[TowerTalk] Sources for SS Hardware ??

[Lux, Jim]

On 11/11/22 3:22 AM, Rob Atkinson wrote:
> More up to date info:
>
> https://www.energy.gov/sites/default/files/2022-05/Fastener-Headmark-List-2022.pdf
> https://www.standards.doe.gov/standards-documents/1200/1221-bhdbk-2016/@@images/file
>
> On Fri, Nov 11, 2022 at 5:12 AM Rob Atkinson <ranchorobbo at gmail.com> wrote:
>> Lots of sources given for s.s. hardware but little on how to tell if
>> the stuff is dependable.  Before I retired, I worked for a DOE
>> contractor and I recall there was a lot of concern over sourcing
>> quality metal parts.  A lot of money can be wasted if inferior
>> hardware is used, or worse, serious injury in some cases.  So, there
>> was training.  Here's a manual they used:
>>
>> https://www.energy.gov/sites/prod/files/2014/06/f16/SCI_Training_Manual.pdf
>>
>> 73
>>
>> Rob
>> K5UJ


The challenge is that "high quality" counterfeits will be marked and 
*look* right, so it's difficult to inspect, especially for the casual 
buyer of small numbers.

Ultimately, it comes down to "trust your retailer"

     One can ask for traceability to the mfr

     One can ask for a certificate of conformance

This is the kind of thing you won't get at, say, Home Depot or Lowes.  
It's something you might get at a fastener supplier (like McMaster or 
Allen) - they'll typically provide a CoC, but mfr trace I'm not sure.

The other approach (if you're going to use a bunch) is to buy a batch, 
and test a couple out of the batch. You'd want to be sure that the batch 
is all from the same mfr & lot, in some way. Maybe they come in a sealed 
box with the manufacturer's name (as opposed to the retailer).


It's a real problem.