Newest FAQs
The ASTM specification for A563 Nuts allows certain substitutions under defined conditions: Within A563 (Grades A → DH): The A563 specification states that nuts manufactured to a stronger grade within A563 may be substituted in place of a weaker grade. This means an A563 Grade DH nut can be substituted in place of an A563 Grade A... Read more
Quick Answer What is a DTI washer? DTIs (Direct Tension Indicators) are single use mechanical load cells where bump compression corelates to bolt tension independently of specific torque values. Our Squirter® DTIs provide visual tension verification through the extrusion of the Safety Orange DuraSquirt® formula, eliminating the need for torque wrenches, match-marking, or feeler gages.... Read more
Yes! Quantities of bolts can be misinterpreted as bolt diameters from construction plans. Reasons quantities are misinterpreted? One of the most frequent ways we see this mix-up is when a detailer specs out a quantity per a specific location for a particular bolt. Detailers will go through and label where bolts need to be located... Read more
When tightening a nut onto anchor bolts, it is important to follow procedures to ensure proper installation and secure fastening. Here is a general outline: Clean the threads of any debris or rust using a wire brush or similar tool. If specified apply wax to threads and bearing surfaces. Place the nut on the anchor bolt and hand-tighten... Read more
The short answer is yes. Here is why: When bolts go through the hot-dip galvanizing process the zinc leaves an extra layer coating the bolt. This extra layer of zinc adds 0.002” – 0.006” of thickness to the bolt. When galvanized nuts are manufactured their threads are tapped oversize to accommodate for the thicker material. ... Read more
Fully threaded bolts are often referred to as “tap bolts”. The unthreaded portion of a bolt is often referred to as the “grip”. ASME B18.2.1 is the dimensional standard that covers hex, heavy hex, and square head bolts as well as lag screws. This specification states for fully threaded bolts and lag screws that are... Read more
The length of a tie rod assembly is typically measured from pin to pin, which is the centerline of the pin of one clevis to the centerline of the pin of the opposing clevis. However, when you are looking to order a tie rod assembly you will need to know additional dimensions. What information is... Read more
With Portland Bolt and Manufacturing Company located in the Northwestern part of the United States, you may ask yourself why Portland Bolt would be the best source for your fastener requirement versus a multitude of companies that deal in the fastener industry. Although geographic location is a factor when choosing a fastener supplier, Portland Bolt... Read more
Lag screws are used in wood and are installed by rotating the head to screw the lag screw into the wood. Since lag screws are designed to drive into the wood instead of being secured with a nut they have deeper and sharper threads than your average hex-headed bolt which typically uses UNC (national course)... Read more
When stainless steel fasteners are specified in the construction industry, 304 and 316 stainless steel are by far the most common. Although 304 and 316 are simply the type of stainless raw materials used to produce a finished fastener to an ASTM specification, it is also common for the finished fastener to be specified as... Read more
