We are evaluating whether titanium could be practical for upholstery staples used in humid environments and restoration work. We are not claiming that titanium automatically provides greater holding power or an unlimited service life.
The questions are:
1. Which grade and condition would be formable into a fine-wire staple without cracking or excessive springback?
2. How should titanium staples be compared with carbon-steel and stainless-steel staples in solid wood and plywood?
3. Which measurements would be most useful: withdrawal load, lateral load, displacement, cyclic loading, humidity exposure and corrosion?
4. Would the lower elastic modulus of titanium require a different leg cross-section, crown geometry or driver setting?
5. Has anyone here formed, driven or tested titanium wire fasteners of a similar size?
A single titanium staple should not be treated as meaningful electromagnetic shielding; our interest is corrosion resistance, low residual magnetism and mechanical performance. We would appreciate practical criticism and suggestions for a defensible test program.