Galling and Seizure
Galling is thread seizure from adhesive wear, where surfaces cold-weld during tightening. It is common with stainless on stainless and with titanium or aluminum.
Galling at a glance
| Most at risk | Stainless bolt with stainless nut, fast power tools, fine threads |
|---|---|
| Signs | Rising torque, nut locks mid-run, torn threads |
| Prevention | Anti-seize, slower tightening, different nut alloy or condition, coated nuts, coarse threads |
| After it galls | Do not force it back; cut and replace |
Governing standards: ASTM F593-24 / F594 (appendix on galling); maker guidance. Editions shown are the latest confirmed as of September 2026. The drawing and the governing standard always take precedence over this sheet.
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Galling and seizure
What it is
FAILURE MODE
Galling is thread seizure from adhesive wear, where surfaces cold-weld during tightening. It is common
with stainless on stainless and with titanium or aluminum.
Galling: threads cold-weld and seize
Galling at a glance
Most at risk
Stainless bolt with stainless nut, fast power tools, fine threads
Signs
Rising torque, nut locks mid-run, torn threads
Prevention
Anti-seize, slower tightening, different nut alloy or condition, coated nuts, coarse threads
After it galls
Do not force it back; cut and replace
Governing standards: ASTM F593-24 / F594 (appendix on galling); maker guidance. Editions shown are the latest confirmed as of September 2026. The drawing and the governing
standard always take precedence over this sheet.
torquing any fastener. Verify the current governing standard, project documents, OEM requirements, size, thread, coating and lot certification. To the fullest extent permitted by law, The Fastener App disclaims liability
arising from reliance on this reference.
Fastener Guide reference FG-5768B4 · thefastenerapp.com/fastener-guide/failure-analysis/galling-and-seizure · © The Fastener App. Reference only — verify the current governing standard, drawing and manufacturer data before specifying or installing.

























