What Is a Specialty Metal?

WHEN ARE YOUR RETAINING RINGS SUBJECT TO DFARS COMPLIANCE?

The Defense Federal Acquisition Regulation Supplement (DFARS) is a guideline for those seeking to do business with the US government. Items made from what the standard defines as “specialty metals” can only be made from a metal melted in the US or a qualifying country on the DFARS approved list (see below).

What is a specialty metal?

There is a whole section in the standard that defines this parameter, but for retaining rings it’s simple. Only retaining rings made from stainless steel or copper would be considered “specialty metals” and therefore subject to DFARS compliance:

1. Stainless Steel
a. PH 15-7, our “SS” designation. Example—SH-25SS
b. Type 420 stainless, our “SC” designation. Example—SH-25SC
c. DIN 1.4122 stainless, our “SG” designation. Example—SH-25SG

2. Copper
a. Beryllium Copper, our “BC” designation. Example—SH-25BC
b. Phosphor Bronze, our “PB” designation. Example—SH-25PB

NOTE: CARBON STEEL PARTS (OUR “ST” DESIGNATION) ARE NOT SUBJECT TO DFARS COMPLIANCE.

When should you request DFARS certification?

If you are purchasing a military part from us (either stainless steel or copper), you will receive DFARS certification as part of your order. There is no extra charge for this service.

If you are purchasing a commercial part for ultimate sale to a government agency, then you must request a DFARS cert at the time of your order. (There is a $30 charge per part for this certification).

If you have any questions, please contact Rotor Clip technical sales (e-mail address).

DFARS Approved List of Qualifying Countries:

Italy
Luxembourg
Netherlands
Norway
Poland
Portugal
Spain
Sweden
Switzerland
Turkey
United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland.
USA

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