Marine Clam Cleat - 316 Stainless Steel Mirror Polished (2-1/2"")
Deck_Mooring_Hardware • Top Pick
Check PriceDeck hardware failure is not an option when securing critical lines. Standard nylon or low-grade alloy cleats frequently succumb to UV degradation and mechanical shear under load, leading to compromised safety and equipment loss during mooring or cover deployment.
Generic deck hardware often utilizes 304-grade stainless or zinc-plated steel. In high-salinity environments, these materials experience rapid pitting and crevice corrosion. A 304-grade cleat lacks the molybdenum content necessary to withstand chloride-induced stress corrosion cracking. Furthermore, unpolished surfaces create abrasive friction, accelerating line wear on expensive braided ropes. For those refitting aluminum vessels, as discussed on the TinBoats Aluminum Forum, choosing the wrong metallurgical grade leads to galvanic corrosion and structural failure at the mounting point.
The solution is the Marine Clam Cleat - 316 Stainless Steel Mirror Polished (2-1/2"). Engineered from A4-grade 316 stainless steel, this cleat is designed for maximum tensile strength and corrosion resistance. The 2-1/2" (64mm) footprint is optimized for low-profile mounting, while the mirror-polished finish reduces the coefficient of friction on the line entry points while maintaining a passive oxide layer for longevity. This hardware is a critical component of a comprehensive marine-grade system, alongside a Bruce Anchor - 316 Marine-Grade Stainless Steel (2.2lb to 178.4lb) for secure anchoring and a 316 Stainless Steel Boat Deck Drain - Universal Tubeless Scupper (76mm) for efficient water management. For heavier applications, consider the Single Cross-Bit Mooring Bollard - 316 Stainless Steel (83mm).
Material Performance Comparison
| Cleat Type | Material | UV Resistance | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| Marine Clam Cleat (2-1/2") | 316 Stainless Steel | Inert (High) | Premium / Long-term Value |
| Generic Alternative | Nylon / 304 Stainless | Low (Degrades) | Economy / Frequent Replacement |
Technical Glossary
- Molybdenum
- A chemical element added to 316 stainless steel to increase resistance to pitting and crevice corrosion in chloride environments.
- Mirror Polished
- A mechanical finishing process that reduces surface roughness (Ra), enhancing the protective chromium oxide layer and preventing contaminants from adhering to the metal.
FAQ
- Will this cleat rust when used in saltwater environments?
- No. This cleat is manufactured from 316-grade stainless steel, which contains molybdenum. This specific alloy is far superior to standard 304 stainless, providing exceptional resistance to pitting and corrosion even in continuous saltwater exposure.
- Does the mirror finish make the rope more likely to slip?
- On the contrary. While the exterior is mirror-polished to protect your lines from abrasion, the internal jam-cleat geometry is precision-engineered to create a mechanical lock on braided lines, providing a secure, non-slip grip under tension.
- What size rope is best suited for the 2-1/2 inch model?
- The 2-1/2 inch model (ZB0204-2.5) is optimized for lighter lines typically used in small craft or for securing covers and fenders, performing best with rope diameters between 1/8" and 1/4".
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