Stainless Steel hinges - Investment Cast

Investment cast hinges are a critical component for marine hardware, particularly in environments where saltwater and humidity can compromise the integrity of standard hinges. Investment casting is a precision casting process that ensures a smooth surface finish, tight dimensional tolerances, and high mechanical strength – crucial elements for proper installation and smooth operation. This manufacturing process allows for hinges with intricate details and superior quality compared to stamped or forged hinges.

These steel hinges, made from AISI 316 stainless steel, are specifically designed to withstand corrosion and wear caused by the marine environment, ensuring a long service life even in extreme conditions. AISI 316 stainless steel is known for its high resistance to chloride corrosion, making it ideal for nautical applications. Our selection includes diverse options, with sizes ranging from 29 to 190 mm and thicknesses from 2 to 8 mm, to suit a variety of applications, from hatches to locker doors, lazarettes to companionways.

The choice of the right hinge depends on the type of application and the load it will bear. For heavier applications, such as large hatches or doors subject to high stress, it is advisable to opt for hinges with a greater thickness and a reinforced design. Correct installation is essential to ensure the functionality and durability of the hinge. Ensure that the screws are of the appropriate material (A4 stainless steel) and that they are tightened correctly. Incorrect installation can cause premature wear and malfunctions.

The Nautica Basile Workshop Recommends

• Fast and secure shipping throughout Italy.


• Satisfaction guaranteed or your money back.


• Pre- and post-sales technical assistance.


• Only original spare parts from official distributors.

You might also be interested in our selection of stainless steel shackles and thimbles to complete your marine hardware.

What is the difference between the different stainless steel finishes of the hinges?

Stainless steel can have different finishes, from polished to satin. The finish does not affect the corrosion resistance, but the aesthetics. The polished finish is easier to clean, while the satin finish is less prone to scratches.

How can I protect stainless steel hinges from corrosion?

Although stainless steel is corrosion resistant, it is advisable to clean the hinges regularly with fresh water and a neutral detergent. Avoid using abrasive products that could damage the finish. In particularly aggressive environments, you can apply a specific protective coating for stainless steel.

Can I use these hinges for applications other than nautical?

Absolutely yes. The precision hinges in stainless steel are suitable for any application that requires corrosion resistance and durability, such as outdoor furniture, the food and chemical industry.

What is the advantage of investment casting compared to other manufacturing processes?

Investment casting allows you to obtain complex and detailed shapes with high dimensional precision and a smooth surface finish. This translates into hinges that are more resistant, durable and with a superior aesthetic appearance compared to those produced with other methods.

How to choose the correct hinge size?

The size of the hinge depends on the weight and dimensions of the element it must support. It is also important to consider the frequency of use and environmental conditions. In general, it is advisable to choose a slightly oversized hinge to ensure greater safety and durability.

What are the advantages of AISI 316 stainless steel compared to AISI 304?

AISI 316 stainless steel contains molybdenum, which makes it significantly more resistant to chloride corrosion than AISI 304. This makes it the ideal choice for marine applications and saline environments.

How can I keep investment cast hinges in good condition over time?

In addition to regular cleaning with fresh water and neutral detergent, it is advisable to periodically lubricate the hinges with a specific lubricant for stainless steel. This helps prevent corrosion and maintain smooth movement.

What is the difference between the different stainless steel finishes of the hinges?

Stainless steel can have different finishes, from polished to satin. The finish does not affect the corrosion resistance, but the aesthetics. The polished finish is easier to clean, while the satin finish is less prone to scratches.

How can I protect stainless steel hinges from corrosion?

Although stainless steel is corrosion resistant, it is advisable to clean the hinges regularly with fresh water and a neutral detergent. Avoid using abrasive products that could damage the finish. In particularly aggressive environments, you can apply a specific protective coating for stainless steel.

Can I use these hinges for applications other than nautical?

Absolutely yes. The precision hinges in stainless steel are suitable for any application that requires corrosion resistance and durability, such as outdoor furniture, the food and chemical industry.

What is the advantage of investment casting compared to other manufacturing processes?

Investment casting allows you to obtain complex and detailed shapes with high dimensional precision and a smooth surface finish. This translates into hinges that are more resistant, durable and with a superior aesthetic appearance compared to those produced with other methods.

How to choose the correct hinge size?

The size of the hinge depends on the weight and dimensions of the element it must support. It is also important to consider the frequency of use and environmental conditions. In general, it is advisable to choose a slightly oversized hinge to ensure greater safety and durability.

What are the advantages of AISI 316 stainless steel compared to AISI 304?

AISI 316 stainless steel contains molybdenum, which makes it significantly more resistant to chloride corrosion than AISI 304. This makes it the ideal choice for marine applications and saline environments.

How can I keep investment cast hinges in good condition over time?

In addition to regular cleaning with fresh water and neutral detergent, it is advisable to periodically lubricate the hinges with a specific lubricant for stainless steel. This helps prevent corrosion and maintain smooth movement.