Axle Material

JGood · Jan 15, 2013

I am looking to replace the axle stud on my bike. My work can custom make threaded studs cheaply for me. I live near the beach and was thinking of using SS. Any thoughts on using SS either 18-8 or 316? Is it strong enough or would that material be too brittle? If not stainless what other material and would zinc be better than plain? What material are normal axles made of?

mitchelangelo · Jan 15, 2013

I'm guessing normal axles are Grade 8 steel.

socal_jack · Jan 16, 2013

Wheels Mfg that makes a lot of replacement axles uses 4130 cromo in their stuff

http://wheelsmfg.com/axle-06.html

B607 · Jan 16, 2013

An axle is generally made of mild steel. The last thing you want is an axle that is very hard. You want your axle to have a bit of give so it doesn't snap. Gary

JGood · Jan 16, 2013

So would 18-8 (304) or 316 be too brittle? I have access to the other materials but i like the idea of SS. Guess I could just try it... Lol

LukeTheJoker · Jan 16, 2013

Trying to remember back to my trade school days, but I think from memory stainless is slightly more ductile (flexible) than normal steel, so the opposite of brittle.

Personally I would go the 304, it is closer to standard steel strength, and it is rust resistant enough for most purposes.

Luke.

P.S. Let us know how you go! Never know, you might even sell some on here...

c.p.odom · Jan 18, 2013

304 SS is a bit on the soft side and cannot be heat treated. It is easy to work with, and has good corrosion resistance. 416 would be a better choice.