"Edwin Pawlowski" writes:

We use the 18-8 machine screws and socket cap screws, mostly from McMaster.
They are used in tooling that is subjected to steam, water (pH 6.4), air,
vacuum cycles every 30 to 60 seconds for 24 hours a day, sometimes for
months at a time. They hold up well. Never found a reason to use a more
expensive item.

I'm certainly not planning on buying the 316 stainless fasteners. I was
just trying to determine if the 18-8 or the 304 stuff is the same as the
stuff sold at the local hardware store.

It appears the 18-8 is the same grade as the normal hardware store stuff.

Brian Elfert