## Common ground
All options are types of nail plugs made from different metallic materials.
## Options at a glance
**7318.2X – Iron or steel**
- **Defining trait:** Made from ferrous metal, typically strong and cost-effective.
- **Typical examples:** Standard wood repair plugs, construction fasteners.
- **Best fit when:** Durability and low cost are priorities; used in general carpentry.
**7415.33 – Copper**
- **Defining trait:** Corrosion-resistant and conductive; often used where longevity matters.
- **Typical examples:** Marine wood repairs, antique restoration.
- **Best fit when:** Exposure to moisture or high aesthetic value is key.
**7508.90 – Nickel**
- **Defining trait:** High resistance to corrosion and heat; expensive and less common.
- **Typical examples:** Industrial or high-performance applications.
- **Best fit when:** Extreme environmental conditions or specialized use.
**7616.10 – Aluminium**
- **Defining trait:** Lightweight and rust-resistant; easy to work with.
- **Typical examples:** Furniture, interior design, lightweight fixtures.
- **Best fit when:** Weight reduction is important and strength needs are moderate.
**7907.00 – Zinc**
- **Defining trait:** Often used for galvanizing or sacrificial protection; soft and prone to wear.
- **Typical examples:** Coated fasteners, temporary repairs.
- **Best fit when:** Protection against rust via coating is needed.
**8101.99 – Tungsten**
- **Defining trait:** Extremely hard and dense; used in high-stress applications.
- **Typical examples:** Heavy-duty industrial tools, mining equipment.
- **Best fit when:** Maximum hardness and wear resistance are required.
**8102.99 – Molybdenum**
- **Defining trait:** High melting point and strength at elevated temperatures.
- **Typical examples:** Aerospace or high-temp engineering parts.
- **Best fit when:** Extreme heat or structural integrity under stress is critical.
**8104.90 – Magnesium**
- **Defining trait:** Very lightweight; flammable in powder form.
- **Typical examples:** Aerospace components, specialized tools.
- **Best fit when:** Weight savings are essential and fire risk is managed.
**8108.90 – Titanium**
- **Defining trait:** Strong, lightweight, and highly corrosion-resistant.
- **Typical examples:** High-end furniture, medical or marine applications.
- **Best fit when:** Premium performance with balance of strength and weight.
## Key differences
| Material | Strength | Weight | Corrosion Resistance | Cost |
|---------------|----------|----------|------------------------|----------|
| Iron/Steel | High | Medium | Low | Low |
| Copper | Medium | Medium | Very High | Medium |
| Nickel | High | Medium | Very High | High |
| Aluminium | Medium | Low | High | Medium |
| Zinc | Low | Medium | Moderate | Low |
| Tungsten | Very High| High | High | Very High|
| Molybdenum | Very High| Medium | High | Very High|
| Magnesium | Low | Very Low | Low | Medium |
| Titanium | High | Low | Very High | Very High|
## How to choose
- Is the plug used in a wet or corrosive environment? → 7415.33, 7508.90, 7616.10, 8108.90
- Is weight a major concern? → 7616.10, 8104.90, 8108.90
- Is maximum strength or hardness needed? → 8101.99, 8102.99
- Is cost the main factor? → 7318.2X, 7907.00
## Overlaps & pitfalls
A plug may fit multiple categories (e.g., titanium is strong and corrosion-resistant like copper). The defining trait should be based on **primary function**: if durability in water, prioritize corrosion resistance; if structural load, prioritize strength. No option is vague—each reflects a distinct material property