What Materials Are Cage Nuts Made Of?
Cage nuts are widely used fastening components in 19-inch server racks, cabinets, and industrial equipment. Although small in size, the material of cage nuts plays a critical role in load capacity, corrosion resistance, and long-term reliability. Choosing the right cage nut material helps ensure stable installation and reduces maintenance risks in different application environments.
As one of the reliable fastener manufacturers in China, Xinchi is glad to introduce the most common materials used for cage nuts and explain how each material performs in real-world applications.
Carbon Steel Cage Nuts for Cost-Effective Applications
Carbon steel cage nuts are the most commonly used option in standard server racks and industrial assemblies. They offer reliable strength and stable thread performance, making them suitable for most indoor applications where extreme corrosion resistance is not required.
To improve durability, carbon steel cage nuts are usually surface-treated with zinc plating or nickel plating. Zinc-plated cage nuts provide basic corrosion protection and are widely used in data centers, network cabinets, and equipment racks. Nickel-plated cage nuts offer slightly better surface hardness and appearance, making them suitable for environments with higher aesthetic or wear requirements.
Because of their balance between performance and cost, carbon steel cage nuts remain the first choice for large-volume projects.
Stainless Steel Cage Nuts for Corrosion Resistance
In environments where humidity, condensation, or outdoor exposure is a concern, stainless steel cage nuts are a more suitable solution. Stainless steel cage nuts are commonly made from A2 (304) or A4 (316) stainless steel, both known for excellent anti-rust performance.
A2 stainless steel cage nuts are widely used in indoor applications with occasional moisture, while A4 stainless steel cage nuts are preferred for coastal areas, chemical facilities, or outdoor installations. Compared with carbon steel cage nuts, stainless steel cage nuts offer longer service life under harsh conditions, reducing the need for frequent replacement.
These properties make stainless steel cage nuts especially popular in telecom equipment, outdoor cabinets, and industrial machinery.
Brass and Phosphor Bronze Cage Nuts for Special Requirements
For applications that require electrical conductivity or enhanced corrosion resistance, brass and phosphor bronze cage nuts are sometimes used. These materials are non-magnetic and perform well in environments where electrical grounding or signal stability is important.
Phosphor bronze cage nuts also provide good wear resistance and elasticity, which helps maintain a stable clamping force during repeated installation and removal. Although less common than carbon steel or stainless steel cage nuts, these materials are selected for specific industries with higher technical requirements.
Choosing the Right Cage Nuts Material for Your Application
Selecting the correct cage nut material depends on the working environment, load requirements, and budget considerations. For standard rack installations, zinc-plated carbon steel cage nuts usually provide sufficient strength and corrosion protection. In more demanding environments, stainless steel cage nuts offer better long-term reliability, while brass or phosphor bronze cage nuts serve specialized functions.
Understanding material differences helps buyers avoid over-specification or under-performance when sourcing cage nuts for their projects.
Cage Nuts Supplied by Xinchi Fasteners
Xinchi Fasteners supplies cage nuts made from zinc-plated carbon steel and stainless steel, designed specifically for 19-inch server racks and industrial machinery. Our cage nuts are manufactured with consistent thread accuracy and stable spring clips to ensure smooth installation and secure fastening in practical use.
These cage nuts are widely used by global customers in data centers, electrical cabinets, and industrial equipment assemblies.
Xinchi Fasteners Factory Advantages
Founded in 2007, Xinchi Fasteners is a professional manufacturer specializing in industrial fasteners, including cage nuts and related products. The factory operates a total of 102 cold heading machines, with a daily output exceeding 10 million pieces, supporting a stable supply for large-volume orders.
Xinchi’s newly completed factory covers an area of 30,000 square meters, featuring two six-story production buildings. As a trusted fastener supplier, we offer a wide range of high-quality fasteners, including nuts, screws, bolts, rivets, and washers. With a complete production process and strict quality control system, Xinchi Fasteners is able to provide consistent product quality, reliable delivery, and long-term cooperation for global B2B customers.