Application FAQs

Lag Screw Torque Specifications

Are torque specifications or values available for lag screws?

There are no documented torque values for lag bolts or screws. The reason for this lies in the definition of torque when discussing threaded fasteners. To put it simply, torque is a measure of the twisting force required to spin a nut up along the threads of a bolt. Lag screw threads are driven into wood, and therefore,... Read more

Contec vs. Wilson Sleeves

What is the difference between the two types of anchor sleeves that Portland Bolt stocks?

Portland Bolt inventories two different lines of anchor bolt sleeves, Wilson and Contec. There are many similarities between the two products, with two notable differences. The two main differences between these two types of anchor bolt sleeves are in sizing and coloring. Wilson Sleeves Contec Sleeves Composition and Materials Both brands are manufactured of high... Read more

Wrench Openings and Socket Sizing

How do I determine the proper wrench opening or socket size to tighten a specific size of bolt?

Socket sizes and wrench openings for tightening nuts and bolts are determined by the dimension across the flats of either the nut or bolt head. According to the Machinery’s Handbook, 26th edition, “Wrenches are marked with the ‘nominal size of wrench’ which is equal to the basic or maximum width across flats of the corresponding... Read more

Cutting Bolts in the Field

Is it acceptable practice to alter a bolt’s length in the field if it is too long?

Altering a bolt’s length or configuration in the field is acceptable as long as it does not change the length originally specified by the designer or engineer. If a bolt is longer than what was originally needed, the bolt can be cut down in the field. How the bolt is cut is important to consider.... Read more