A Guide to Performance, Durability, and DFARS Compliance
When it comes to precision screw manufacturing for aerospace applications, material selection is far more than a matter of preference—it’s a matter of performance, longevity, and above all, compliance. In this industry, every detail matters. At Extreme Precision Screw Products (EPSP), we know that the right material choice is foundational to the success of every part we produce.
In this guide, we’ll walk through the most commonly used materials in aerospace screw manufacturing, their impact on performance, and how DFARS regulations shape sourcing decisions. Whether you’re designing components for commercial jets or defense aircraft, understanding the material landscape is essential.
Why Precision Screw Manufacturing Materials Matter
The aerospace sector is among the most demanding environments for precision fasteners. Screws must withstand extreme temperatures, high vibration, corrosive conditions, and immense stress—all while maintaining strict tolerances and reliability.
This makes material selection in precision screw manufacturing a mission-critical decision. The right material delivers more than strength—it ensures corrosion resistance, fatigue performance, and long-term stability in flight. It must also comply with DFARS guidelines.
Understanding DFARS: More Than Just a Sourcing Requirement
Before diving into specific materials, it’s important to highlight DFARS, or the Defense Federal Acquisition Regulation Supplement. For aerospace applications tied to U.S. defense contracts, DFARS isn’t optional—it’s required.
These regulations govern where materials can be sourced from. In short, certain materials must originate from countries approved by the U.S. Department of Defense. That means materials like titanium or specialty steels must be purchased only from DFARS-compliant sources.
If you’re working on a defense or government aerospace contract, DFARS-compliant material sourcing isn’t a preference—it’s a legal obligation. At EPSP, we ensure that every material we purchase for qualifying aerospace projects meets DFARS standards. We understand the ins and outs of compliance so our customers don’t have to second-guess.
Stainless Steel: Versatile and Cost-Effective
Stainless steel is one of the most widely used materials in precision screw manufacturing. Its corrosion resistance, availability, and strength make it a go-to option for many aerospace applications, especially in interior cabin assemblies and non-structural components.
Common Stainless Grades:
- 303 and 304: Easy to machine and highly corrosion-resistant.
- 316: Offers improved resistance in saltwater or harsh environments.
- 17-4 PH: Combines strength and corrosion resistance, often used in structural aerospace applications.
Pros:
- Readily available in DFARS-compliant forms.
- Excellent machinability and weldability.
- Good strength-to-weight ratio for non-critical parts.
Considerations: While stainless steel is tough and reliable, it’s not ideal for high-heat or high-strength applications. That’s where titanium and specialty alloys take the lead.
Have questions about choosing the right stainless steel grade for your aerospace application? Our team is here to help—reach out anytime.
Titanium: Lightweight Strength for Critical Components
Titanium alloys are highly sought-after in aerospace precision screw manufacturing thanks to their unmatched strength-to-weight ratio and resistance to extreme conditions. From airframes to engines, titanium is often the material of choice for structural and high-performance applications.
Popular Titanium Grades:
- Grade 5 (Ti-6Al-4V): The most commonly used titanium alloy in aerospace, combining high strength, low weight, and corrosion resistance.
- Grade 2: Commercially pure titanium, often used when weldability is more critical than strength.
Pros:
- Outstanding fatigue resistance.
- High strength with low density.
- Performs well under thermal stress.
DFARS Impact: Titanium sourcing is heavily regulated under DFARS. Non-compliant material from non-approved countries is not acceptable for defense projects. We only source titanium from DFARS-approved countries, and ensure material is certified as such when it is delivered.
Specialty Alloys: Performance Beyond the Basics
When standard materials won’t cut it, specialty alloys step in. These include high-performance materials like Inconel, Monel, and A286—engineered to thrive in extreme environments.
Examples:
- Inconel 718: Used in jet engine components, this nickel-based alloy offers exceptional heat and oxidation resistance.
- A286: An iron-nickel-chromium alloy ideal for high-temperature fasteners and screws.
- Monel 400: Best for marine and corrosive environments.
Pros:
- Exceptional performance in heat, corrosion, and fatigue environments.
- Ideal for mission-critical, high-performance assemblies.
- Many options available in DFARS-compliant forms.
Considerations: These alloys are more expensive and harder to machine, so they’re typically reserved for when nothing else will do.
Matching Material to Application: Key Questions to Ask
Before choosing your material for precision screw manufacturing, ask yourself:
- Will this part be exposed to extreme heat or cold?
- Is corrosion resistance critical?
- Will this be part of a pressurized system?
- Does the project fall under DFARS requirements?
- What are the tolerances and performance expectations?
These questions can narrow down your material options quickly—and help you avoid compliance headaches down the line.
The EPSP Approach to Material Selection
At EPSP, we bring over 80 years of experience in precision screw manufacturing, and our team works closely with clients to ensure every project starts with the right material. We evaluate engineering specs and DFARS requirements to guarantee standards are met when purchasing material.
Material certification and traceability are part of our DNA. Every aerospace order is accompanied by complete documentation, and our long-standing partnerships with suppliers who source from DFARS-approved mills to ensure quality from the ground up.
Precision Screw Manufacturing Materials Matter More Than Ever
In aerospace, precision isn’t optional—and neither is material compliance. Whether you’re working with stainless steel, titanium, or a specialty alloy, every choice impacts how your final product performs under pressure.
EPSP is proud to support precision screw manufacturing projects with materials that meet the highest standards for performance, durability, and DFARS compliance. We believe that collaboration leads to better outcomes, and we’re always here to help.
Need guidance on a specific project? We’re ready when you are. EPSP is built on trust, quality, and precision—and we’re here to help you succeed. Contact us