It is crucial to have an understanding of the material meant for marine structures, vessels, or components because of the extremely harsh conditions in a saltwater or underwater environment. Pairing the best material with its specific forming processes is the key to a long-lasting, and durable final product. Marine-grade material must be rust resistant, with the ability to resist degradation and corrosive effects. Defending against corrosion and withstanding constant exposure to salt water and other natural elements, while remaining durable over time can be a challenge but not when the correct material is properly formed, increasing its durability and strength to give it a long-lasting marine life.

Popular forming processes include metal spinning, machining, deep drawing and stamping, and hydroforming. Throughout the fabrication process, the material may thicken and become much more dense, increasingly becoming more durable. Because of “work hardening,” throughout the forming process, a controlled deformation process will lead to internal stresses. As the material is strained further, it is actually getting harder and stronger over time. Work hardening can occur through spinning, rolling, drawing, or other processes. For example, throughout the metal spinning process, the material will become harder and stronger as it is shaped around the mandrel. The metal spinner must recognize the material’s capacity without pushing it too far to avoid cracks or breaks. When the process is done correctly, the material will certainly be stronger than it was as a blank, and can be put to use. 

Marine-grade metals include:

• Stainless steel
• Galvanized Steel
• Carbon Steel
• Brass
• Aluminum
• Titanium

Steel

Stainless steel 304 is one of the most popular materials in many industries including marine, because of how versatile it is. Characteristics that make it ideal for marine components:

• Minimizes carbide precipitation
• Ability to withstand high temperatures
• Corrosion-resistant 
• Strong and durable 

Stainless Steel 316 is similar to 304, but offers enhanced corrosion resistance, thanks to its higher molybdenum and nickel content. Stainless Steel is always a good material to use for many different industries. It can be formed by various different processes, in many shapes and sizes. 

Carbon steel needs to combine with alloys such as chromium and manganese to ensure the appropriate corrosion resistance and strength.

Brass

Marine or Naval Brass are often blended with Lead, Tin, or Zinc to improve its sea qualities. Tin and Zinc help to improve corrosion resistance, while lead enhances the metal’s maneuverability. Brass can also withstand high heat, making it a great material for pumps, piping, fasteners, or motor components.

Aluminum

Aluminum is an extremely strong and durable material, while weighing less than steel, providing a great option for marine components. Mixing chromium or magnesium or silicon alloys with aluminum helps to extend its corrosion resistance. Aluminum is by far one of the most common marine materials.

Titanium

Titanium is another great material for marine usage due to its high strength, corrosion resistance, and repels microbial adhesion, all very important characteristics for enduring extremely harsh marine conditions. Titanium has a great strength-to-weight ratio. Titanium is extremely strong and durable, but weighs almost half as much as steel, and 60% less than aluminum, while being twice as strong.

What are commonly fabricated marine applications?  

Marine Vessel Components 

• Navigation light housings
• Deck Hardware 
• Custom Interior Components 
• Pontoon/Paddleboat components

Other Marine Applications

• Stainless Steel floating balls 
• Float Shells / Oblong Ball Floats 
• Aluminum Fish net floats 
• Floating Dock components 
• Pressure vessel tank ends
• Submersible pumps
• Flanged cylinders
• Protective caps or covers
• Subsea Enclosures/Housings