Tag Archives: ASTM

Structural Bolt Connection Types

My company is looking to purchase A325SC, A325N, and A325X heavy hex structural bolts. What is the difference between these three?

There is no difference between these bolts. The “X”, “SC”, and “N” simply identify the type of connection the bolts are used in. “X” and “N” are bearing type connections, where the bolts are being used in shear. “X” means these particular A325 heavy hex structural bolts will be used in a bearing type connection... Read more

Ordering A193 Class 2 Bolts

What is an "A193 Class 2" heavy hex bolt and how do I order them?

ASTM A193 is a specification for alloy and stainless steel fasteners for high temperature service, high pressure service, or both. Within the A193 specification there are multiple grades of bolts made from either alloy or stainless steel. The stainless steel grades, such as B8 and B8M, can be ordered as either Class 1 (carbide solution... Read more

Weight Gained from Galvanizing

How much weight is gained from hot-dip galvanizing bolts?

According to the American Galvanizers Association (AGA) the weight of an item on average will increase about 3.5% from the zinc added during the galvanizing process. However, the AGA goes on to say, “…that figure can vary greatly based on numerous factors. The fabrication’s shape, size, and steel chemistry all play a major role, and... Read more

ASTM and SAE Differences

What are the main difference between ASTM 307 GR.B, ASTM A449, and SAE Grade 5 bolts?

There are two specifying bodies when it comes to fasteners. ASTM (American Society for Testing and Materials) covers primarily bolts and fasteners for construction applications. SAE (Society of Automotive Engineers) covers fasteners for automotive, machinery, and OEM applications. ASTM A307 grade B is made from a low carbon steel and is a relatively low strength... Read more

ASTM A325 vs A449

I have two items that use 1" bolts, one is ASTM A325 and the other is ASTM A449, I would like to just use one. Which is the one that meets or exceeds the other?

These bolts are identical with regard to strength and chemistry. There are very minor differences in the hardness requirements, but the proof load, tensile, and yield strength requirements are the same. From a manufacturing standpoint, we make these bolts using the same raw material and the same heat treating and production methods. Our strength by... Read more

Rotational Capacity Testing

What is rotational capacity (ROCAP) testing?

Per ASTM F3125 Annex section 2.1.1, the rotational capacity test is defined as a test, “intended to evaluate the presence of a lubricant, the efficiency of lubricant and the compatibility of assemblies.” In a 1970 study referenced by the Research Council on Structural Connections (RCSC), it was shown that galvanizing increases the friction between the... Read more

Grade 8 vs ASTM A325

Is a Grade 8 bolt the same as an ASTM A325?

ASTM A325 and SAE J429 grade 8 are not the same fastener. As a matter of fact, they couldn’t be more different. SAE (Society of Automotive Engineers) establishes specifications covering fasteners intended for use in automotive, OEM, and equipment applications, while ASTM (American Society for Testing and Materials) provides specifications for construction fasteners. There are... Read more

RA% = “Reduction of Area”

What is "Reduction of Area (RA%)"?

RA% is a term that stands for “reduction of area percentage.” It is an important requirement of the ASTM F1554 specification, in addition to other specifications. This value is reported as a percentage of the original test piece. When fasteners undergo mechanical testing, they are pulled to failure and the diameter of the point at which... Read more