Stainless Steel Hex Standoff

The Stainless Steel Hex Standoff is a precision-engineered mechanical fastener designed to create and maintain fixed spacing between two components while providing strong and corrosion-resistant support. Characterized by a hexagonal body and internal or external threading, it is widely used in electronic enclosures, marine structures, and high-vibration industrial applications where strength, dimensional stability, and longevity are critical.

Available in both 303 and 316 stainless steel, these standoffs conform to international standards such as ASME B18.6.3 and are available in UNC, UNF, and metric thread variants.

Key Features and Advantages

• Excellent Corrosion Resistance
  316 stainless steel standoffs withstand over 1,000 hours in salt spray tests (ASTM B117), ideal for marine, chemical, and outdoor environments.

• High Mechanical Strength
  Tensile strengths of 620 MPa (303 SS) and 579 MPa (316 SS) support heavy mechanical loads without deformation.

• Temperature Resistance
  Operates reliably up to 800°F (427°C) for 303 grade and 1500°F (816°C) for 316 grade in continuous-use environments.

• EMI/RFI Shielding
  When grounded, stainless steel standoffs provide electromagnetic interference protection, critical in electronic and telecommunications equipment.

• Non-Magnetic Properties
  Both 303 and 316 offer low magnetic permeability (<1.02 μ), making them suitable for sensitive electronic assemblies.

• Precision Fit
  Tight manufacturing tolerances (±0.005 inches / ±0.127 mm) ensure exact alignment and minimal play in critical assemblies.

Manufacturing Process

• CNC Machining – Used for achieving precise hex shapes and threading tolerances, especially on high-strength Materials like 316 SS.

• Thread Cutting or Rolling – Ensures thread durability and full engagement depth per ASME or ISO standards.

• Surface Finishing – Parts are deburred and polished to 32-63 µin Ra, reducing friction and wear in mating applications.

• Passivation (per ASTM A967) – Optional chemical treatment to remove surface iron and enhance corrosion resistance.

• 100% Quality Inspection – Includes thread gauging, dimensional verification, and visual defect screening under 10× magnification.

Material Selection

303 SS is ideal for general-purpose industrial and enclosure applications.

316 SS is preferred for marine, chemical, medical, or food-grade environments due to added molybdenum content.

Surface Treatment

• As-machined (standard) – Smooth finish for general industrial use

• Passivated (optional) – Enhances corrosion resistance for harsh environments

• Polished or Brushed Finish – For architectural and visible applications

• Electropolishing – Available on request for medical and food-grade equipment to reduce surface roughness and improve cleanability

Precision and Quality Control

• Thread Specification: UNC/UNF/M2–M6 options per ASME B1.1, ISO 965

• Tolerance: ±0.005 inch (±0.127 mm) on length and across-flats (hex width)

• Concentricity: ≤0.1 mm between internal thread and body centerline

• Torque Verification: Ensures strength without galling (e.g., 25–35 in-lbs for 1/4-20 thread)

• Vibration & Shock Resistance: Tested for frequencies up to 2000Hz (per MIL-STD-810G)

Application Industries

Electronics Enclosures

• EMI shielding, grounding, and rigid PCB mounting

• Ideal for rack-mounted equipment, telecom base stations, and RF enclosures

Marine & Offshore

• Used in sensor mounting, navigation devices, and mechanical enclosures

• 316 grade provides long-term resistance to seawater and salt spray

Medical Devices

• Suitable for cleanroom use and sterilization (autoclavable at 134°C)

• Electropolished 316 SS meets FDA and ISO 10993 requirements

Industrial Machinery

• Spacing and isolation of components in vibration-prone machinery

• Maintains joint integrity under high mechanical loads

Food Processing Equipment

• FDA-compliant 316 SS variants used in equipment with direct food contact

• Smooth finishes meet 3-A Sanitary Standards

Aerospace and Telecom

• Lightweight and strong fasteners for RF shielding and dielectric isolation

• Non-magnetic, stable in high-altitude and temperature-shift environments

FAQ – Frequently Asked Questions

Q1: What is the difference between 303 and 316 stainless steel hex standoffs?
A: 303 offers good machinability and corrosion resistance, while 316 has enhanced chemical and saltwater resistance due to molybdenum content—ideal for marine, medical, and food-grade uses.

Q2: Can I get custom sizes or threads?
A: Yes. We offer custom lengths, thread types (UNC/UNF/metric), and body widths based on your design or technical drawings.

Q3: What’s the maximum temperature these standoffs can handle?
A: 303 stainless steel supports up to 800°F (427°C), while 316 can endure up to 1500°F (816°C) in continuous use.

Q4: How do I prevent galling during installation?
A: Use nickel-based anti-seize lubricants and avoid over-tightening. Thread galling is common in stainless steel without proper treatment.

Q5: Are your stainless steel standoffs RoHS and REACH compliant?
A: Yes, all materials and surface treatments are compliant with RoHS 3, REACH, and conflict minerals declarations.

Q6: Do you offer samples or small-batch production?
A: Absolutely. Prototype runs and sample quantities are available for design validation or pilot testing.