A2 Fasteners

The letter A and the digit 2 in fastener marking indicate that the product is made of austenitic stainless steel grade A2.

The steel contains 15 to 26% chromium and 5 to 25% nickel, which increases corrosion resistance, improves machinability and reduces magnetic properties to virtually zero.

Scope of application

Fasteners made of A2 stainless steel (AISI 304 = 1.4301 = 08×18N10) are used in general construction work, including for:

• installation of ventilated and glazed curtain facades;
• installation of aluminium structures for curtain walls;
• construction of light-transparent roofs, skylights, and winter gardens;
• construction of envelope structures.

A2 fasteners are also used in mechanical engineering and the automotive industry, shipbuilding, the chemical and oil and gas industries, as well as in instrument making and automation.

Properties of A2 steel

Austenitic stainless steel grade A2 is the most sought-after for fastener production due to the following properties:

• resistance to corrosion, including intergranular corrosion;
• tensile strength from 500 to 800 N/mm2;
• resistance to temperatures from -200°C to +425°C;
• no toxic emissions;
• compliance with sanitary and hygienic standards, which allows the fasteners to be used in the food and pharmaceutical industries.

A2 fasteners last for a long service life without changes to their technical characteristics. Their use is not recommended where there is possible contact with seawater or with chlorine-containing compounds.