Portland Bolt will be closed January 1st.

Newest FAQs

Can all A307A material be certified to Grade 2?

Answer No, not all A307A material can be certified to Grade 2. Size and Configuration Limitations The Grade 2 specification has different mechanical requirements depending on the diameter, length, and type of fastener. Proof Load Requirement Grade 2 fasteners must successfully pass a proof load test, confirming that the fastener can withstand a specified load... Read more

Does threaded rod (all-thread) have a published straightness tolerance?

No. Standard commercial threaded rod—typically supplied in 3 ft, 6 ft, and 12 ft lengths—does not have any published or mandatory straightness tolerance.There is no ASTM or ASME specification that assigns a default limit for straightness on fully threaded rod. If there is no published tolerance, how is straightness handled? According to ASME B18.31.3 (Threaded... Read more

Fully threaded rod image
Can I substitute A563 nuts?

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

What’s the Difference Between Squirter® and Non-Squirter DTIs?

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

Are quantities ever misinterpreted as the bolt diameter on construction plans

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

How do you torque anchor bolts?

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

Should nuts and washers be galvanized when used with galvanized bolts?  

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

Galvanized Bolts
When a fully threaded bolt is specified, how much of an unthreaded shank is allowed?

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

How is a Tie Rod Assembly Measured?

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

Tie rod assembly with connection plate diagram.
What Separates Portland Bolt from Other Suppliers?

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

Machine for rotational capacity testing.

We are the Industry Experts

It's no secret that we are known as experts in the fastener industry and have been since 1912. Our devotion to customer service, quality products, and on-time deliveries have propelled us to success since our inception.

Request a Quote Browse Products