Ask the Expert

Question: Can the anchor bolts type ASTM F1554 grade 36 be replaced with ASTM A307 grade 36?

Answer: ASTM A36 is a steel grade, not a bolt specification. A307 and F1554 grade 36 are ASTM specifications covering bolts. Read More...

Question: What information do I need to provide when ordering bolts or requesting a quotation to ensure that I receive the correct product?

Answer: Below is list of information to provide and an explanation of how each factor effects price and lead time. Read More...

Question: Can welding be performed on high strength anchor bolts and fasteners?

Answer: The short answer is that in most cases, welding is not allowed on high strength bolts. Read More...

Question: Can high strength bolts be hot-dip galvanized?

Answer: Some high strength bolts can be galvanized while others cannot. Read More...

A comprehensive look at the differences between fastener manufacturers and fastener distributors. This article covers potential considerations to take when choosing a bolt supplier, as well as comparisons between several different types of bolt suppliers. Read More...

Have you ever had a fastener company try and talk you into substituting A193 grade B7 all thread rod for F1554 grade 55 anchor rods, claiming it’s “better?” Read More...

Question: What is the difference between a bolt with rolled threads and one with cut threads and does a fastener with a reduced body and rolled threads meet ASTM specifications?

Answer: Threads of a mechanical fastener, regardless of whether it is a headed bolt,rod, or bent bolt, can be produced by either cutting or rolling.  Read More...

Question: Can a rod with a welded nut be substituted for a bolt with a forged head?

Answer: When a rod with a nut is substituted for a bolt with a forged head, two issues come into play. In-house mechanical testing performed by Portland Bolt on headed bolts versus rods with a nut, both from the identical lots of steel, the rod with a nut developed up to 12% less strength than the comparable headed bolt. Read More...

Question: Does commercially available mild steel all thread rod meet ASTM F1554 grade 36?

Answer: In almost all cases, commercially available all thread rod will not meet F1554 grade 36. Read More...

Question: Are SAE Grade 2, 5, and 8 bolts available in diameters over 1½”?

Answer: No, SAE only covers bolts up to and including 1½” diameter. SAE J429 (1999), the specification that covers Grade 2, 5, and 8 fasteners, states, “This SAE standard covers the mechanical and material requirements for inch-series steel bolts, screws, studs, SEMS, and U-bolts used for automotive and related industries in sizes to 1½ in. inclusive.” Read More...