ASTM Bolt Specifications

The American Society for Testing and Materials, is an international standards organization that develops and publishes voluntary consensus technical standards for a wide range of materials, products, systems, and services.

A153 - Hot dip galvanizing specification. A193 - Alloy steel and stainless steel bolting materials for high temperature service. A194 - Carbon and alloy nuts for bolts for high pressure and high temperature service. A307 - Carbon steel bolts and studs ranging from 1/4" through 4" diameter. A320 - Alloy steel and stainless steel bolting materials for low temperature service. A325 - Structural bolts, steel, heat treated, 120/105 ksi minimum tensile strength. A354 - Quenched and tempered alloy bolts, studs, and other externally threaded fasteners. A449 - Quenched and tempered steel bolts and studs. A490 - Structural bolts, alloy steel, heat treated, 150 ksi tensile strength. A563 - Standard specification for carbon and alloy steel nuts. F1554 - Anchor bolts designed to anchor structural supports to concrete foundations. F2329 - New specification covering hot dip galvanizing.

ASTM A153
Quick Links

Galvanizing FAQ: Galvanizing High Strength Bolts FAQ: Galvanized Nuts Tapped Oversize

Scope
The ASTM A153 specification covers zinc coating (hot-dip) on iron and steel hardware. A newer and more appropriate specification developed in 2005 covering the requirement for hot-dip galvanizing of bolts, screws, nuts, washers and other threaded fasteners is ASTM F2329. It is not yet widely used since many of the ASTM specifications covering bolts, nuts and washers do not reference it. As soon as revisions referencing F2329 are made to these fastener specifications, F2329 will become more common. ASTM A123 is a related hot-dip galvanizing specification covering iron and steel products made from rolled pressed and forged shapes, castings, plates, bars, and strips. The equivalent AASHTO specification to ASTM A153 is AASHTO M232.

ASTM A193
Quick Links

Hex Bolts A193 All Thread Rod ASTM A194 Thread Pitch Chart

Scope
Originally approved in 1936, this specification is heavily utilized in petroleum and chemical construction applications. The ASTM standard covers alloy steel and stainless steel bolting materials for high temperature or high pressure service. This specification includes fasteners intended for use in pressure vessels, valves, flanges, and fittings. Although, this material is often available in national coarse (UNC) thread pitches, if being used in traditional applications, threads are specified 8 threads per inch (tpi) for diameters above one inch. Below is a basic summary of a few of the common grades. ASTM A193 covers a number of other standard specifications not covered in this description including B5, B6, and B16.

Grades
B7 B8 Alloy steel, AISI 4140/4142 quenched and tempered Class 1 Stainless steel, AISI 304, carbide solution treated.

B8M Class 1 Stainless steel, AISI 316, carbide solution treated. B8 Class 2 Stainless steel, AISI 304, carbide solution treated, strain hardened

B8M Class 2 Stainless steel, AISI 316, carbide solution treated, strain hardened

Mechanical Properties
Grade Size Up to 2-1/2 B7 2-5/8 - 4 4-1/8 - 7 B8 Class 1 B8M Class 1 All All Up to 3/4 7/8 - 1 B8 Class 2 1-1/8 - 1-1/4 1-3/8 - 1-1/2 105 100 65 50 20 28 35 45 Tensile ksi, min Yield, ksi, min Elong, %, min RA % min 125 115 100 75 75 125 115 105 95 75 30 30 100 80 16 16 18 30 30 12 15 50 50 50 50 50 35 35

Grade

Size Up to 3/4 7/8 - 1

Tensile ksi, min Yield, ksi, min Elong, %, min RA % min 110 100 95 90 95 80 65 50 15 20 25 30 45 45 45 45

B8M Class 2 1-1/8 - 1-1/4 1-3/8 - 1-1/2

Recommended Nuts and Washers

Bolt Grade B7 B8 Class 1 Nuts A194 Grade 2H A194 Grade 8 Washers F436 SS304 SS316 SS304 SS316

B8M Class 1 A194 Grade 8M B8 Class 2 A194 Grade 8

B8M Class 2 A194 Grade 8M

Strain hardened nuts available as a supplementary requirement

ASTM A194
Quick Links

Heavy Hex Bolts ASTM A193 Nut Weight Chart

Scope
The ASTM A194 specification covers carbon, alloy and stainless steel nuts intended for use in high-pressure and/or hightemperature service. Unless otherwise specified, the American National Standard Heavy Hex Series (ANSI B 18.2.2) shall be used. Nuts up to and including 1 inch nominal size shall be UNC Series Class 2B fit. Nuts over 1 inch nominal size shall be either UNC Series Class 2B fit or 8 UN Series Class 2B fit. High strength ASTM A194 grade 2H nuts are common in the marketplace and are often substituted for ASTM A563 grade DH nuts due to the limited availability of DH nuts in certain diameters and finishes.

Grades
2 2H Carbon steel heavy hex nuts Quenched & tempered carbon steel heavy hex nuts

2HM Quenched & tempered carbon steel heavy hex nuts 4 7 Quenched & tempered carbon-molybdenum heavy hex nuts Quenched & tempered alloy steel heavy hex nuts

7M Quenched & tempered alloy steel heavy hex nuts 8 Stainless AISI 304 heavy hex nuts

8M Stainless AISI 316 heavy hex nuts

Mechanical Properties Grade Identification Markings

Grade Identification Marking5 Specification Material Proof Hardness Nominal Tempering Load Rockwell See Size, In. Temp. F Stress, Note ksi Min Max

ASTM A194 Grade 2

Medium Carbon Steel

1/4 - 4

1000

150

159 352 1,2,3

ASTM A194 Grade 2H

Medium Carbon Steel, Quenched and Tempered Medium Carbon Steel, Quenched and

1/4 - 4

1000

175

C24 C38

1,2

ASTM A194 Grade 2HM

1/4 - 4

1000

150

159 237 1,2,3

Tempered Medium Carbon Alloy Steel, Quenched and Tempered Medium Carbon Alloy Steel, Quenched and Tempered Medium Carbon Alloy Steel, Quenched and Tempered

ASTM A194 Grade 4

1/4 - 4

1100

175

C24 C38

1,2

ASTM A194 Grade 7

1/4 - 4

1100

175

C24 C38

1,2

ASTM A194 Grade 7M

1/4 - 4

1100

150

159 237 1,2,3

ASTM A194 Grade 8

Stainless AISI 304

1/4 - 4

80

126 300

ASTM A194 Grade 8M

Stainless AISI 316

1/4 - 4

80

126 300

NOTES: 1. The markings shown for all grades of A194 nuts are for cold formed and hot forged nuts. When nuts are machined from bar stock, the nut must additionally be marked with the

letter 'B'. The letters H and M indicate heat treated nuts. Properties shown are those of coarse and 8-pitch thread heavy hex nuts. Hardness numbers are Brinell Hardness. Nuts that are carbide-solution treated require additional letter A - 8A or 8MA. All nuts shall bear the manufacturers identification mark. Nuts shall be legibly marked on one face to indicate the grade and process of the manufacturer. Marking of wrench flats or bearing surfaces is not permitted unless agreed upon between manufacturer and purchaser. Nuts coated with zinc have an asterisk (*) marked after the grade symbol. Nuts coated with cadmium shall have a plus sign (+) marked after the grade symbol. 6. Other less common grades exist, but are not listed here. 2. 3. 4. 5. Inch Fastener Standards. 7th ed. Cleveland: Industrial Fasteners Institute, 2003. N-80 - N-81.

ASTM A307
Quick Links

Hex Bolts Bent Anchor Bolts A307 All Thread Rod ASTM A563 Hex Nuts

Scope
The ASTM A307 specification covers carbon steel bolts and studs ranging from 1/4 through 4 diameter. This is your everyday, run of the mill bolt specification often manufactured using A36 round bar. There are three grades A, B, and C* which denote tensile strength, configuration, and application. Refer to the Mechanical Properties Chart for the subtle strength differences within each grade.

Grades
A Headed bolts, threaded rods and bent bolts intended for general applications. B Heavy hex bolts and studs intended for flanged joints in piping systems with cast iron flanges. C* Nonheaded anchor bolts, either bent or straight, intended for structural anchorage purposes. The end of a grade C anchor bolt intended to project from the concrete will be painted green for identification purposes. Permanent marking is a supplemental requirement. *As of August 2007, grade C has been replaced by specification F1554 grade 36. We will continue to supply grade C, if required by the project.

Mechanical Properties
Grade Tensile, ksi Yield, min, ksi Elong %, min A B C* 60 min 60 - 100 58 - 80 --36 18 18 23

Recommended Nuts and Washers

Nuts A307 Grades A & C* 1/4 - 1-1/2 1-5/8 - 4 A307 Grade B 1/4 - 4 F844 Washers

A563A Hex A563A Heavy Hex A563A Heavy Hex

ASTM A320
Quick Links

Heavy Hex Bolts ASTM A193 Strength by Grade

Scope
Originally approved in 1948, the ASTM A320 specification covers alloy steel and stainless steel bolting materials for low temperature service. This standard covers rolled, forged, or strain hardened bars, bolts, screws, studs, and stud bolts used for pressure vessels, valves, flanges, and fittings. Like the ASTM A193 specification, unless otherwise specified, the 8UN thread series is specified on fastener larger than 1 in diameter. Below is a basic summary of a few of the common grades within the ASTM A320 specification. A number of other less common grades of ASTM A320 exist, but not covered in the description below.

Grades
L7 Alloy steel L43 Alloy steel AISI 4140/4142 Quenched and tempered AISI 4340 Quenched and tempered

B8 Class 1 Stainless steel

AISI 304, carbide solution treated

B8M Class 1 Stainless steel AISI 316, carbide solution treated B8 Class 2 Stainless steel AISI 304, carbide solution treated, strain hardened

B8M Class 2 Stainless steel AISI 316, carbide solution treated, strain hardened

Mechanical Properties
Grade Size Tensile, Yield, ksi, min ksi, min 125 125 75 105 105 30 Charpy Impact Elong, 20-ft-lbf RA, %, min %, min @ temp -150 F -150 F N/A 16 16 30 50 50 50

L7 L43 B8 Class 1 B8M Class 1

Up to 21/2 Up to 4 All

All Up to 3/4
7

75 125 115 105 100 110 100 95 90

30 100 80 65 50 95 80 65 50

N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A

30 12 15 20 28 15 20 25 30

50 35 35 35 45 45 45 45 45

B8 Class 2

/8 - 1

11/8 - 11/4 13/8 - 11/2 Up to 3/4

7

B8M Class 2

/8 - 1

11/8 - 11/4 13/8 - 11/2

Recommended Nuts and Washers

Grade L7 L43 B8 Class 1 B8M Class 1 B8 Class 2 Nuts A194 Grade 4 or 7 A194 Grade 4 or 7 A194 Grade 8 A194 Grade 8M A194 Grade 8, strain hardened Washers F436 F436 SS304 SS316 SS304 SS316

B8M Class 2 A194 Grade 8M, strain hardened

ASTM A325
Quick Links

DTI Washer Large Diameter A325 Rotational Capacity Bolt Torque Chart

Scope
The ASTM A325 specification covers high strength heavy hex structural bolts from diameter through 1-1/2 diameter. These bolts are intended for use in structural connections and therefore have shorter thread lengths than standard hex bolts. Refer to the Structural Bolts page of our site for thread lengths and other related dimensions. This specification is applicable to heavy hex structural bolts only. For bolts of other configurations and thread lengths with similar mechanical properties, see Specification A 449. Bolts for general applications, including anchor bolts, are covered by Specification A 449. Also refer to Specification A 449 for quenched and tempered steel bolts and studs with diameters greater than 1-1/2" but with similar mechanical properties.

Types
TYPE 1 Medium carbon, carbon boron, or medium carbon alloy steel. TYPE 2 Withdrawn November 1991. TYPE 3 Weathering steel.

T M

Fully threaded A325. (Restricted to 4 times the diameter in length) Metric A325.

Connection Types
SC Slip critical connection. N Bearing type connection with threads included in the shear plane. X Bearing-type connection with threads excluded from the shear plane.

Mechanical Properties
Size 1/2 - 1 1-1/8 - 1-1/2 Tensile, ksi Yield, ksi Elong. %, min RA %, min 120 min 105 min 92 min 81 min 14 14 35 35

Recommended Nuts and Washers

Nuts Type 1 Plain A563C, C3, D, DH, DH3 Galvanized A563DH Type 3 Plain A563C3, DH3 Washers Type 1 F436-1 Type 3 F436-3

Note: Nuts conforming to A194 Grade 2H are a suitable substitute for use with A325 heavy hex structural bolts. The ASTM A563 Nut Compatibility Chart has a complete list of specifications.

ASTM A354
Quick Links

Hex Bolts Anchor Rods Strength by Grade

Scope
The ASTM A354 specification covers the chemical and mechanical requirements of quenched and tempered alloy steel bolts, studs, and other externally threaded fasteners 4" and under in diameter.

Two strength levels, grade BC and grade BD, are summarized in the chart below. This specification is unrestricted in its configuration and can be a headed bolt, bent bolt, or threaded rod.

Grades
A354 grade BD bolts are higher in strength than A354 grade BC and equal in strength to ASTM A490 bolts. Unlike ASTM A490 however, the A354 BD specification is unrestricted in its configuration. Since A490 bolts are heavy hex structural bolts and do not exceed 1-1/2" diameter, specification A354 BD should be considered for anchor bolts, threaded rods, other styles of headed bolts, and bolts larger than 1-1/2" diameter where A354 similar mechanical properties are desired. A354 grade BD does not require a magnetic BD particle test as is required by the A490 specification. Research conducted on bolts of similar material and manufacture indicates that hydrogenstress cracking or stress cracking corrosion may occur on hot-dip galvanized Grade BD bolts. For more information about this subject, please see our FAQ that addresses galvanizing of high strength bolts.
A354 Lower in strength than grade BD. BC

Mechanical Properties
Grade Size 1/4 - 2-1/2 BC 2-5/8 - 4 1/4 - 2-1/2 BD 2-5/8 - 4 140 115 14 40 115 150 99 130 16 14 45 40 Tensile, ksi, min Yield, ksi, min Elong %, min RA %, min 125 109 16 50

Recommended Nuts and Washers

Nuts Grade BC Plain A563C Heavy Hex Galvanized A563DH Heavy Hex Grade BD Plain A563DH Heavy Hex F436 Washers

* Nuts of other grades load stresses greater than the specified grade are suitable. Follow the link for an ASTM A563 Nut Compatibility Chart.

ASTM A449

Quick Links

Thread Pitch Chart Ask the Expert Bolt Torque Chart

Scope
ASTM A449 covers headed bolts, rods, and anchor bolts in diameters ranging from 1/4" through 3" inclusive. It is a medium strength bolt manufactured from a medium carbon or alloy steel that develops its mechanical values through a heat treating process. It is intended for general engineering applications. ASTM A449 is virtually identical in chemistry and strength to ASTM A325 and SAE J429 grade 5. However, A449 is more flexible in the sense that it covers a larger diameter range and is not restricted by a specific configuration.

TYPES
TYPE 1 Plain carbon steel, carbon boron steel, alloy steel, or alloy boron steel. TYPE 2 Withdrawn 2003 TYPE 3 Weathering steel.

MECHANICAL PROPERTIES
Size 1/4 - 1 1-1/8 - 1-1/2 1-5/8 - 3 Tensile, ksi Yield, ksi Elong. %, min RA %, min 120 min 105 min 90 min 92 min 81 min 58 min 14 14 14 35 35 35

RECOMMENDED NUTS and WASHERS

Nuts Plain 1/4 - 1-1/2 A563B Hex 1-5/8 - 3 A563A Heavy Hex Galvanized 1/4 - 3 A563DH Heavy Hex F436 Washers

Note: Nuts of other grades having proof load stresses greater than the specified grade are suitable. The ASTM A563 Nut Compatibility Chart has a complete list of specifications.

ASTM A490
Quick Links

DTI Washer Bolt Glossary Bolt Torque Chart

Scope
The ASTM A490 specification covers quenched and tempered, alloy steel, heavy hex structural bolts from diameter through 1 diameter with a minimum 150 ksi tensile. These bolts are intended for use in structural connections and therefore have shorter thread lengths than standard hex bolts. Refer to the Structural Bolts page of our site for thread lengths and other related dimensions. A490 bolts are similar in application and dimensions to A325 heavy hex structural bolts but are made from an alloy steel rather than a medium carbon steel, resulting in a higher strength fastener. The A490 specification is applicable to heavy hex structural bolts only. For bolts with different thread lengths than specified for structural bolts but with similar mechanical properties, see Specification A354 grade BD. ASTM A490 bolts shall not be coated by hot-dip galvanizing, mechanical deposition, or electroplating with zinc or other metallic coatings due to the potential risk of hydrogen embrittlement. Additional testing in the form of Magnetic Particle Inspection for Longitudinal Discontinuities and Transverse Cracks is a requirement of the A490 specification.

Types
TYPE 1 Medium carbon and alloy steel. TYPE 2 Withdrawn in 2002. TYPE 3 Weathering steel.

Metric A490.

Connection Types
SC Slip critical connection.

N Bearing type connection with threads included in the shear plane. X Bearing type connection with threads excluded from the shear plane.

Mechanical Properties
Size 1/2 - 1-1/2 Tensile, ksi Yield, ksi Elong. %, min RA %, min 150-173 130 14 40

Recommended Nuts and Washers

Nuts Type 1 Type 3 Washers Type 1 Type 3

A563DH A563DH3 F436-1 F436-3

Note: Nuts conforming to A194 Grade 2H are a suitable substitute for use with A490 heavy hex structural bolts. Follow the link for anASTM A563 Nut Compatibility Chart.

Notes
1. The bolts shall not be coated by hot-dip zinc coating, mechanical deposition, or electroplating with zinc or other metallic coatings due to the potential for hydrogen embrittlement. Read more about issues with galvanizing ASTM A490. Each sample representative of the lot shall be magnetic particle inspected for longitudinal discontinuities and transverse cracks.

2.

ASTM A563
Quick Links

Thread Pitch Chart Ask the Expert Bolt Torque Chart The ASTM A563 specification covers the chemical and mechanical requirements for carbon and alloy steel nuts used on bolts, studs, and externally threaded fasteners. The charts below address over tapping allowances for hot-dip galvanized nuts, grade marking requirements, and mechanical requirements. For information on suitable nuts for various grades of bolts, visit theNut Compatibility Chart. According the A563 specification, "The requirements for any grade of nut may, at the supplier's option, and with notice to the purchaser, be fulfilled by furnishing nuts of one of the stronger grades specified herein unless such a substitution is barred in the inquiry and purchase order". This is important because some nut grades are not readily available in certain sizes and

finishes. Additionally, the specification allows for the substitution of ASTM A194 grade 2H nuts in lieu of A563 grade DH nuts due to the lack of availability of grade DH nuts in nominal sizes " and larger. Hot-dip galvanized nuts must be tapped oversize to allow for the added thickness of the zinc on the threads of the externally threaded fastener. These allowances are addressed in the chart below and a more detailed explanation of this issue can be found in theFrequently Asked Questions section of this site. Various nut styles exist and to some degree are determined by their grade. These styles include hex, heavy hex, square, jam, coupling, and sleeve.

Scope
Standard specification for carbon and alloy steel nuts.

Grades
A B C D DH C3 Low carbon steel, hex or heavy hex Low carbon steel, hex or heavy hex Carbon steel, quenched and tempered, heavy hex Carbon steel, quenched and tempered, heavy hex Carbon steel, quenched and tempered, heavy hex Weathering steel, quenched and tempered, heavy hex

DH3 Weathering steel, quenched and tempered, heavy hex

Mechanical Properties
Proof Load, ksi Grade Style Size, in. Black Galvanized Hex A Heavy Hex Heavy Hex B Heavy Hex 1-1/8 - 1-1/2 C / C3 D Heavy Hex Heavy Hex 1/4 - 4 1/4 - 4 1/4 - 4 116 144 150 175 87 144 150 150 121 - 302 143 - 352 248 - 352 248 - 352 1/4 - 4 1/4 - 1 100 133 75 100 116 - 302 121 - 302 1/4 - 1-1/2 90 68 116 - 302 Hardness, HBN

DH / DH3 Heavy Hex

For UNC, 8UN, 6UN, and Coarse Pitch Threads

Grade Identification Markings

Grade Identification Marking Specification Material Nominal Size, In. Proof Load Stress, ksi Hardness Rockwell Min ASTM A563 Grade O ASTM A563 Grade A Max See Note

Carbon Steel

1/4 - 1-1/2

69

B55

C32

2,3

Carbon Steel

1/4 - 1-1/2

90

B68

C32

2,3

No Mark

ASTM A563 Grade B

1/4 - 1 Carbon Steel >1 - 1-1/2

120 B69 105 C32 2,3

ASTM A563 Grade C

Carbon Steel, may be Quenched and Tempered

1/4 - 4

144

B78

C38

ASTM A563 Grade C3

Atmospheric Corrosion Resistant Steel, may be Quenched and Tempered

1/4 - 4

144

B78

38

4,6

ASTM A563 Grade D

Carbon Steel, may be Quenched and Tempered

1/4 - 4

150

B84

C38

ASTM A563 Grade DH

Carbon Steel, Quenched and Tempered

1/4 - 4

175

C24

C38

ASTM A563 Grade DH3

Atmospheric Corrosion Resistant Steel, Quenched and Tempered

1/4 - 4

175

C24

C38

4,6

NOTES: 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. In addition to the indicated grade marking, all grades, except A563 grades O, A, and B, must be marked for manufacturer identification. Nuts are not required to be marked unless specified by the purchaser. When marked, the identification marking shall be the grade letter O, A, or B. Properties shown are those of nonplated or noncoated coarse thread nuts. Properties shown are those of coarse thread heavy hex nuts. Properties shown are those of coarse thread heavy hex nuts. Other nuts styles and fine threads may apply. The nut manufacturer, at his option, may add other markings to indicate the use of atmospheric corrosion resistant steel.

Inch Fastener Standards. 7th ed. Cleveland: Industrial Fasteners Institute, 2003. n-80-n-81.

Thread Dimensions and Oversizing Allowances

for Nuts: Hot Dipped Galvanized per Specification A153, C1.C Pitch Diameter Nominal Nut Size, in. and Pitch Diametral Allowance, in. Min 0.250 - 20 0.312 - 18 0.375 - 16 0.437 - 14 0.500 - 13 0.0562 - 12 0.625 - 11 0.750 - 10 0.875 - 9 0.016 0.017 0.017 0.018 0.018 0.020 0.020 0.020 0.022 0.2335 0.2934 0.3514 0.4091 0.4680 0.5284 0.5860 0.7050 0.8248 Max 0.2384 0.2987 0.3571 0.4152 0.4745 0.5352 0.5932 0.7127 0.8330

Pitch Diameter Nominal Nut Size, in. and Pitch Diametral Allowance, in. Min 1.000 - 8 1.125 - 8 1.125 - 7 1.250 - 8 1.250 - 7 1.375 - 8 1.375 - 6 1.500 - 8 1.500 - 6 1.750 - 5 2.000 - 4.5 2.250 - 4.5 2.500 - 4 2.750 - 4 3.000 - 4 3.250 - 4 3.500 - 4 3.750 - 4 4.000 - 4 0.024 0.024 0.024 0.024 0.024 0.027 0.027 0.027 0.027 0.050 0.050 0.050 0.050 0.050 0.050 0.050 0.050 0.050 0.050 0.9428 1.0678 1.0562 1.1928 1.1812 1.3208 1.2937 1.4458 1.4187 1.6701 1.9057 2.1557 2.3876 2.6376 2.8876 3.1376 3.3876 3.6376 3.8876 Max 0.9516 1.0768 1.0656 1.2020 1.1908 1.3301 1.3041 1.4553 1.4292 1.6817 1.9181 2.1683 2.4011 2.6513 2.9015 3.1517 3.4019 3.6521 3.9023

Inch Fastener Standards. 7th ed. Cleveland: Industrial Fasteners Institute, 2003. B-173.

ASTM F1554

Quick Links

Anchor Rods ASTM A449 Strength by Grade

Scope
The ASTM F1554 specification was introduced in 1994 and covers anchor bolts designed to anchor structural supports to concrete foundations. F1554 anchor bolts can take the form of either headed bolts, straight rods, or bent anchor bolts. The three grades 36, 55, and 105 designate the minimum yield strength (ksi) of the anchor bolt. The bolts can be either cut or roll threaded and a weldable grade 55 can be substituted for grade 36 at the suppliers option. Color coding on the end - 36 blue, 55 yellow, and 105 red helps facilitate easy identification in the field. Permanent manufacturer and grade marking is allowed under the S2 supplementary requirements. Applications for F1554 anchor bolts include columns in structural steel framed buildings, traffic signal and street lighting poles, and overhead highway sign structures to name just a few.

Grades
F1554 Grade 36 Low carbon, 36 ksi yield steel anchor bolts F1554 Grade 55 High strength, low alloy, 55 ksi yield steel anchor bolts F1554 Grade 105 Alloy, heat treated, high strength 105 ksi yield steel anchor bolts

Mechanical Properties
Grade Marking Size inches Tensile, ksi Yield, ksi min Yield, MPa min Elong. % min RA % min

36

4 - 4

58 - 80

36

248

23

40

4 - 2

75 - 95 75 - 95 75 - 95 75 - 95

55 55 55 55

380 380 380 380

21 21 21 21

30 22 20 18

214 - 212 55 234 - 3 314 - 4

105

4 - 3

125 - 150

105

724

15

45

Stamping of F1554 bolts with manufacturer's identification is a supplemental requirement (S2) Color coding is required unless the grade is stamped in accordance with supplemental requirement (S3). When Grade 36 is specified, a weldable Grade 55 may be furnished at the supplier's option.

Recommended Nuts and Washers

Nuts Grade Size inches Plain
1

Washer Galvanized A563A Hex A563A Heavy Hex A563A Heavy Hex A563A Heavy Hex F436 F436 F436 F436 F436 F436

4 - 112

A563A Hex A563A Heavy Hex A563A Hex A563A Heavy Hex

36 134 - 4
1

4 - 112

55 134 - 4
1

4 - 112

A563D Heavy Hex A563DH Heavy Hex A563DH Heavy Hex A563DH Heavy Hex

105 134 - 3
1. 2.

A563-D rarely available, A563DH or A194-2H substituted. Per ASTM A563, A194-2H may be substituted for A563-DH.

ASTM F2329
Quick Links

Galvanizing Capabilities FAQ - Galvanizing High Strength FAQ - Galvanized Nuts

Scope
ASTM F2329 covers the requirements for hot-dip zinc coating applied to carbon steel and alloy steel bolts, screws, washers, nuts, and special threaded fasteners applied by the hot-dip coating process. This specification was developed in 2005, but is not yet widely used since many of the ASTM specification covering threaded fasteners do not reference it. As soon as

these specifications are updated to reference the ASTM F2329 specification, it will likely become much more prevalent than ASTM A153 which is the specification that is currently used to cover hot-dip galvanizing of bolts. ASTM A123 is a related hot-dip galvanizing specification covering iron and steel products made from rolled pressed and forged shapes, castings, plates, bars, and strips.

Galvanizing High Strength Bolts

Question: Can high strength bolts be hot-dip galvanized? Answer: Some high strength bolts can be galvanized while others cannot. In the construction fastener industry, typically the phrase high strength refers to bolts that have been quenched and tempered (heat treated) to develop the proper strength requirements of a given specification. Two separate issues are involved in determining whether or not a high strength bolt can be galvanized. Hydrogen Embrittlement Concerns The first issue involves a phenomenon called hydrogen embrittlement which may occur when atomic hydrogen is absorbed by the steel during the acid pickling process that takes place prior to galvanizing. This embrittlement can potentially lead to the loss or partial loss of ductility in the steel and consequently result in the premature failure of the fastener in the field. According to specification ASTM A143 Safeguarding Against Embrittlement of Hot-Dip Galvanized Structural Steel Products and Procedure for Detecting Embrittlement: In practice hydrogen embrittlement of galvanized steel is usually of concern only if the steel exceeds approximately 150 ksi (1100 MPa) in ultimate tensile strength. Additionally, section 7.2.2 of specification ASTM F2329 Zinc Coating, Hot-Dip, Requirements for Application to Carbon and Alloy Steel Bolts, Screws, Washers, Nuts, and Special Threaded Fasteners reads as follows: For high strength fasteners (having a specified minimum product hardness of 33 HRC), there is a risk of internal hydrogen embrittlement. By reviewing Table 1 below, it is clear that specifications ASTM A490, ASTM A354 grade BD, and SAE J429 grade 8 are all potentially susceptible to hydrogen embrittlement and should therefore not be hot-dip galvanized. This is further reinforced by specific references found in both the ASTM A490 specification and the ASTM A354 specification. According to section 4.3 Protective Coatings of specification ASTM A490: The bolts shall not be coated by hot-dip zinc coating, mechanical deposition, or electroplating with zinc or other metallic coatings. Similarly, Note 4 in section 4 of specification ASTM A354 reads as follows: Research conducted on bolts of similar material and manufacture indicates that hydrogen-stress cracking or stress cracking corrosion may occur on hot-dip galvanized Grade BD bolts. This information taken directly from the ASTM specifications supports the belief that hot-dip galvanizing of ASTM A490, ASTM A354 grade BD, and SAE J429 grade 8 should be avoided due to the risk of hydrogen embrittlement. Which Bolt Grades Can Be Galvanized?

Grade

Can I Galvanize?

Raw material

Nominal Size

Minimum Yield Strength 92 81 92 81 58 92 81 105 95 109 94 105 105 130 130 115 130

Minimum Minimum Tensile Hardness Strength 120 105 120 105 90 120 105 125 115 125 115 125 125 150 150 140 150 C24 C19 C25 C19 B91 C25 C19 NA C26 C22 NA NA C33 C33 C31 C3

ASTM A325

Yes Medium Carbon Steel, Quenched and Tempered

1/2 1 1 1/8 1 1/2 1/4 1 1 1/8 1 1/2 1 5/8 3 1/4 1 1 1/8 1 1/2 1/4 2 1/2 2 5/8 4 1/4 2 1/2 2 5/8 4

ASTM A449

Yes

SAE J429 Grade 5

Yes

ASTM A193 Grade B7

Yes

ASTM A354 Grade BC ASTM F1554 Grade 105 ASTM A320 Grade L7 ASTM A490 ASTM A354 Grade BD SAE J429 Grade 8

Yes Medium Carbon Alloy Steel, Quenched and Tempered

Yes Yes No No No

1/4 3 1/4 2 1/2 1/2 1 1/2 1/4 2 1/2 2 5/8 4 1/4 1 1/2

Effect of Heat on Quenched and Tempered Fasteners The second issue of concern when considering hot-dip galvanizing high strength fasteners is potentially reducing the mechanical strengths due to the introduction of heat during the hot-dip galvanizing process. Portland Bolt operates its hotdip galvanizing tank at 840 Fahrenheit. Is this enough heat to potentially alter the strength of a quenched and tempered fastener? In theory, the amount of heat that a high strength fastener is exposed to during the hot-dip galvanizing process should not alter its mechanical properties. It is obvious that the application of heat to a bolt that develops its strength through a heat treating process could adversely affect the strength of the fastener. The question is, how much heat is necessary to potentially change the mechanical

properties? On page 4-4 of the Ninth Edition of the AISC Manual (American Institute of Steel Construction), the following statement occurs: Anchor bolt material that is quenched and tempered (heat treated) should not be welded or heated. However, it does not address the amount of heat that should be avoided. Welding obviously applies a tremendous amount of heat to the components being welded, whereas hot-dip galvanizing is performed at significantly lower temperatures. Another reference that addresses the heating of high strength bolts (which occurs during hot-dip galvanizing) can be found in the ASTM F1554 specification. Section 6.4.3 of the ASTM F1554 specification states: Hot bending performed on heat-treated bar stock shall not have the temperature come within 100F (56C) of the tempering (stress relieve) temperature of the heat-treat process at any location during hot bending and shall be allowed to air cool after bending. Although this statement refers to hot bending, it implies that any process (including galvanizing) that applies heat approaching or exceeding the tempering temperature of a high strength bolt may potentially alter the mechanical properties of the fastener and should therefore be avoided. However, galvanized bolts only remain in the zinc tank for a few minutes and even though the surface temperature may approach 840, it is unlikely that the entire fastener is heated to that temperature. The most relevant reference found in any ASTM specification addressing the possibility of the hot-dip galvanizing process altering the mechanical properties of a high strength fastener is found in section 7.2.1.2 of the new hotdip galvanizing specification ASTM F2329 which states: Testing for mechanical properties is not necessary if the galvanizing process is carried out at a lower temperature than the stress relief or tempering temperature of the fasteners. This implies that the mechanical properties have the potential to be altered only if high strength bolts are tempered at temperatures at or below the 840 temperature that the bolts are subjected to during hot-dip galvanizing. As Table 2 indicates below, the minimum tempering temperature for both ASTM A193 grade B7 and ASTM F1554 grade 105 is 1100 Fahrenheit. Therefore, it is not possible for the galvanizing temperatures to exceed the tempering temperature for these specifications. Although in theory it is possible for the other specifications to be tempered below the galvanizing temperature, recent records indicate that the minimum tempering temperature used for any of these grades listed in Table 2 that Portland Bolt has manufactured is 950. Therefore, hot-dip galvanizing performed by Portland Bolt on any of the high strength bolt specifications listed in Table 2 will not adversely affect the strength of these fasteners. Minimum Tempering Temperatures

ASTM Grade A325 A449 A354 Grade BC A320 Grade L7 A193 Grade B7

Minimum Tempering Temperature, Fahrenheit 800 800 800 No Requirement 1100

F1554 Grade 105

1100