Stainless Steel

Stainless steel is used in rock climbing equipment because it is strong, durable, and resistant to corrosion. It is also non-magnetic and has excellent mechanical properties. EN 1.4401 / AISI 316 / A4 Stainless Steel is a type of stainless steel which is commonly used in rock climbing safety equipment because it is highly resistant to corrosion and can withstand exposure to harsh environments.

Rock climbing equipment such as glue-in anchors, carabiners, lower off devices, belays, hangers, Via Ferrata ladder rungs, maillons and bolts are often made of stainless steel. In corrosive environments near the beach, titanium glue-in bolts may be a better choice as they do not corrode, but stainless steel is the next best choice and definitely better than ordinary steel.

Rock climbing equipment is designed to be reliable in any weather and weigh as little as possible. High strength/weight ratio is therefore an important consideration in choosing the equipment (metal components involve fasteners, anchors, ropes, carabiners, descenders, ice axes, etc. …). As technical equipment is expensive, it has to be lasting, i.e. not subjected to corrosion that can impair its reliability. In addition, aesthetics and finishes are valued because these products are expected to be attractive to the eye and to feel good when grasped.