Hinge Materials and Finishes: What Works Best Where

In transport builds, hinges do more than open and close doors. They need to handle vibration, weather, load stress and constant use. Choosing the right material and finish helps prevent corrosion, reduce maintenance and extend the life of your trailers, service bodies and equipment.

Here are some of the materials and finishes Ovesco offers:

Stainless Steel

A top choice for transport and marine environments. Stainless steel offers strong corrosion resistance against rain, road spray and coastal conditions. Ideal for trailers, toolboxes and service vehicles that face the elements daily.

• Example: Stainless Steel Sideboard Hinges where corrosion resistance is critical.

Galvanised Steel

Galvanised hinges provide reliable rust resistance at a practical price point. Suitable for general purpose trailers and outdoor transport applications with moderate exposure.

• Example: Ball Bearing Hinges suited to heavy duty transport applications.

Mild Steel

Strong and economical, mild steel hinges are best suited to internal compartments or sheltered areas where moisture exposure is limited.

• Example: Piano Hinges for strong, economical use.

Zinc Plated Steel

Zinc plated hinges provide a clean finish with light corrosion protection. Well suited to enclosed transport builds or applications with limited direct exposure to the elements.

• Example: Zinc Plated Butt Hinges for internal doors, compartments or vehicle fit outs.

Brass

Hinges available in brass are suited to lighter transport applications such as internal toolboxes or access panels where appearance and moderate corrosion resistance matter.

• Example: Brass Pin Hinges for toolboxes or access panels.

Powder Coated Finishes

Powder coating adds extra protection and allows colour matching to vehicle bodies or enclosures. A good option where both durability and presentation matter.

• Example: Black Powder Coated Butt Hinge for a seamless finish.

Matching the hinge material to the operating environment is critical in transport applications. The right choice improves reliability, reduces downtime and keeps your build performing as it should.

If you are unsure which hinge suits your application, our team can help you select the right option for your vehicle or fleet.