What materials should fasteners like bolts, latches, and wing nuts be made from for securing access panels?

Fasteners such as bolts, latches, and wing nuts that are used to secure access panels in commercial cooking operations must be made from materials that can withstand high temperatures, resist corrosion, and provide structural integrity. Carbon steel and stainless steel are ideal choices for these applications.

Stainless steel, in particular, is highly resistant to rust and corrosion which is crucial in environments where grease and cooking vapors are present. Furthermore, stainless steel maintains its strength at elevated temperatures, ensuring that the fasteners will not fail under the conditions typically found in commercial kitchens. Carbon steel can also be used provided it is properly coated or treated to resist rust, but it may not have the same level of corrosion resistance as stainless steel.

The other materials listed, such as aluminum and plastic, may not provide the necessary strength or resistance to heat and contaminants found in commercial cooking environments. Copper and bronze, while strong, are generally not the preferred choices for this application due to their relative softness compared to steel and their potential for corrosion in greasy or acidic environments. Thus, carbon steel and stainless steel are the materials recommended for securing access panels effectively.