How to Remove Seized Stainless Steel Bolts and Nuts: Practical Methods and Tips

Once stainless steel bolts and nuts become seized, separating them becomes extremely difficult. In most cases, destructive removal is required—typically cutting off the bolt and replacing the entire assembly. However, when the bolt diameter is large or the bolt is part of an embedded structure, cutting is inconvenient or even impossible. In such situations, finding a safe and efficient way to remove seized fasteners without damaging the bolt becomes highly valuable.

As a professional fastener manufacturer, Xinchi Fasteners summarizes several practical and widely used methods for safely disassembling stainless steel bolts and nuts in cases of galling or seizing.

Why Stainless Steel Bolts and Nuts Seize

Stainless steel fasteners are prone to thread galling, a form of cold welding that occurs when pressure and friction cause the threads to lock together. Once galling happens, ordinary force cannot loosen the nut, and improper handling can easily damage the threads.

Methods for Removing Seized Stainless Steel Fasteners

1. Use Thread Looseners or Penetrating Oils

Applying a thread loosener (such as kerosene, penetrating oil, or pine oil) can help lubricate the threads.

How to use it:

• Spray the loosening agent thoroughly onto the threaded area.
• Allow the liquid to penetrate for about 30 minutes.
• Tap the nut gently with a rubber mallet to create vibration and improve penetration.
• Attempt to remove the nut after sufficient soaking time.

Effectiveness:

This method works particularly well for corroded fasteners, but its effect on galling-related seizure is limited because galling is mechanical bonding rather than rust.

2. Apply Heat to Expand the Nut (Thermal Expansion Method)

When penetrating oil is ineffective, heating the nut can help. Using a torch or heating tool causes the nut to expand slightly, breaking the bond between the threads.

Considerations:

• Ensure there is enough space for open flame use.
• Confirm that surrounding components and materials can safely withstand heat.
• Avoid overheating to prevent material damage.

This method is effective but limited by safety and working conditions.

3. Use a Nut Splitter or Specialized Removal Tools

Nut splitters provide a direct and efficient method to remove seized nuts.

How it works:

• Position the nut splitter over the nut.
• Use mechanical or hydraulic force to drive the cutter head into the nut.
• The nut splits and can be removed easily.

Advantages:

Fast, convenient, and suitable for extremely tight or locked nuts.

Important Tip:

If the bolt must be preserved, adjust the operation carefully.
During field tests, we found:

If the cutter head is stopped immediately after slight deformation,

And the nut is only squeezed rather than fully cut.

The nut can still be removed without causing damage to the bolt threads.

This approach is ideal when the bolt must remain intact.

Xinchi Fasteners Factory Advantages

With years of manufacturing experience, Xinchi Fasteners offers strong capabilities and reliable quality across a wide range of fasteners.

• Modern Facilities: A new 30,000 m² factory with two six-story buildings for efficient production and storage.
• Large-Scale Production Capacity: 102 cold-forging machines with a daily output exceeding 10 million pieces.
• High-Quality Materials: Premium steel and alloys ensure strength, durability, and corrosion resistance.
• Precision Manufacturing: Advanced CNC machining and thread-rolling processes guarantee accurate dimensions and consistent quality.
• Diverse Product Range: T-nuts, rivet nuts, Flange bolts, hex bolts, rivets, washers, and various industrial fasteners.
• Customized Solutions: OEM/ODM services tailored to customer drawings, samples, or specifications.
• Professional Service & QC: Timely delivery, strong technical support, and strict quality control make Xinchi a dependable long-term partner.

Xinchi is a trustworthy fastener company, especially in furniture nuts. We have a factory,  founded in 2007. We are the designated fastener supplier to“STAPLE”. As a trusted fastener supplier, XINCHI offers a wide range of high-quality fasteners, including nuts, screws, bolts, rivets, and washers. Xinchi Fasteners provides a one-stop solution for industrial and furniture fastening needs, trusted by clients worldwide.

If you would like to learn more about fasteners or are interested in wholesale fasteners, please do not hesitate to contact us. Our experienced and expert service team will reply as soon as possible.