October 2007 Issue

• Ask the Expert
• Project Spotlight
• ASTM Tidbits
• Tech Updates
• Capabilities

Next Issue

• Large A325 Heavy Hex Bolts
• Project Spotlight: Power
• Bolt Head Markings

Ask the Expert

Calculating Bolt Strength

First, unlike tensile and yield strengths, there are no published shear strength values or requirements for ASTM specifications. The Industrial Fastener Institute (Inch Fastener Standards, 7th ed. 2003. B-2) states that shear strength is approximately 60% of the minimum tensile strength. It is important to understand that some imported fasteners, like lag screws, are typically ungraded. Click to continue...

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Project Spotlight

Tacoma Narrows Bridge

In the fall of 2002, after five years of politics and planning, Tacoma Narrows Constructors started on the New Tacoma Narrows Bridge. This 5,400 foot long, $849 million suspension bridge, was a joint venture between Bechtel and Kiewit. Six years later, the first passenger vehicles drove across in July 2007. This massive structure stands parallel to the original Tacoma Narrows Bridge. The goal of the new bridge was to provide safer crossing and reduce congestion for people traveling in the Puget Sound area. Click to continue...

ASTM Tidbits

ASTM A354 BC/BD

This 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. Follow the link below to see a summarized chart of the Mechanical Properties for the two strengths grade BC and grade BD. This specification is unrestricted in its configuration and can be a headed bolt, bent bolt, or threaded rod. Click to continue...

Tech Update

Nut Weight Chart

Have you ever wondered how many pounds the 1-3/4" A194-2H heavy nuts weigh that you're planning on overnighting to Tallahassee? We have created a handy chart to help answer that question. By the way, the nuts you're sending to Florida weigh 2.04 pounds each. View Chart...

Capabilities

Bend it Like Portland Bolt

One of the busiest departments in Portland Bolt's manufacturing facility is our bending area. Not a day goes by where we aren't bending steel into some shape or another. The most common bending we do is in making 90-degree bend anchor bolts. However, while we make our fair share of standard anchor bolts, they are certainly not the only bolts being bent in our facility. We manufacture custom u-bolts, J-bolts, eye bolts, and hook bolts. If you have the need for something completely out of the norm, send us a drawing and we will take a look at any custom bending you need. Click to continue...