Product Quality
The following information will answer some questions our customers might have concerning the quality, strength and durability of our hardware.
Casting Alloy
The following is the chemical composition of the alloy commonly known as Al-Mag 35 which is used to manufacture all RDS Hardware with the exception of the Zinc-Aluminum Cleats and Drive Caps.
| Alloy | Silicon | Iron | Copper | Manganese | Magnesium | Titanium | Other |
| 535 | 0.15 | 0.15 | 0.05 | 0.10-0.25 | 6.2-7.5 | 0.10-0.25 | 0.15 |
This alloy has a tensile strength of 35000 pounds psi but at the same time remains somewhat pliable. It will bend considerably before breaking.
It is a recommended, marine grade alloy and highly resistant to corrosion in both fresh and salt water applications.
Stainless Steel Fasteners
All fasteners used in the RDS Hardware product line are a medium grade, 304 stainless steel material. After extended testing and use, we have found no chemical reaction between the aluminum and the stainless steel.
The stainless steel material is very beneficial in adding longer life to both the hardware and the fasteners. We recommend the use of stainless steel fasteners when mounting the hardware to the dock or deck.
Galvanized Iron Pipe
All pipe sold by RDS is a schedule 40, galvanized iron pipe, with a 3/16 inch wall thickness.
When ordering pipe, be sure to use the inside diameter measurement. Also, proper pipe length for dock leg is determined by measuring water depth and then adding 5 feet. This will allow for driving pipe into lake bottom, depth of dock, clearance over water and height for adjustment above the dock surface.