Stainless Cable and Stainless Fittings - Handling and Care

MARINE GRADE STAINLESS STEEL PRODUCTS

This article contains important information regarding the handling, care, characteristics, and maintenance of our stainless steel fittings and internal components, specifically when installed in saltwater or coastal environments.

Handling

Before unpacking your order, please be aware that while stainless steel is highly resilient, its protective surface can be compromised by contaminants. The natural oils, acids, and salts from your bare hands can transfer to the metal and inhibit the protective chromium oxide layer that prevents rust. We highly recommend using clean, powder-free gloves (such as nitrile) during the handling and installation of these materials. Additionally, ensure you are using clean tools; cross-contamination from carbon steel tools (like drill bits or wrenches) can embed microscopic iron particles into the stainless steel, which will quickly rust and cause surface staining.

Care & Maintenance

Our fittings are manufactured from 316 Marine Grade Stainless Steel, which offers superior corrosion resistance compared to standard metals. However, "stainless" does not mean "stain-proof" or "rust-proof." To lengthen the life of your product’s aesthetics and quality, proactive maintenance is required.

Once you have completed your cable installation, we recommend wiping the products with a clean, damp, lint-free cloth to remove any fingerprints, metal shavings, or environmental dust. Applying a specialized protectant, such as Boeshield T-9 Lubricant or a high-quality marine stainless polish, will introduce an active barrier against moisture and airborne contaminants.

Material Characteristics & Internal Components

While the visible, outer body of our fittings is made from highly resilient 316 Marine Grade Stainless Steel, it is important to note that the internals inside the fitting are not made of marine-grade stainless steel. In most environments, this does not present an issue. However, if moisture—particularly saltwater—is allowed to pool or penetrate the inside of the fitting where the stud sits, the internals can begin to oxidize. If this occurs, you may see rust weeping or bleeding out from the seams of the fitting. This is known as "tea staining." The 316 stainless fitting itself is not failing, but the oxidation from the internal stud is washing out onto the surface.

Disclaimer: Salt Air Environments

Salt air environments (up to 50 miles inland of the ocean) are highly corrosive. All stainless steel cables and fittings exposed to salt air environments over time will and should expect to see corrosion develop at an accelerated rate when used for outdoor applications.

Because the internal components are not marine-grade, coastal installations require strict and regular maintenance. Salt and moisture must not be allowed to accumulate. Discoloration of the surface, oxidation, and rust weeping from the internal components can and will occur outdoors if the system is not routinely rinsed with fresh water. While 316 stainless steel contains lower amounts of carbon compared to regular steel, it still contains some carbon and will experience staining when exposed to harsh, salty air over time. Regular cleaning is the only way to mitigate this natural environmental reaction.