Hex Bolts

Hex-headed fasteners are used in a wide range of construction applications, though critical infrastructure such as bridges and highway structures typically require specific structural bolt specifications rather than generic hex bolts. Hex-headed configurations are also used for headed anchor bolts, which are embedded in concrete to secure structural elements, but these are typically specified and manufactured as anchor bolts rather than standard hex bolts.

Portland Bolt manufactures hex bolts from ½″ through 2½″ in diameter in most ASTM, AASHTO, and SAE specifications. Stock sizes range from ½″ to 1″ diameter with lengths up to 30″. Available grades include ASTM A307 Grade A and F1554 Grade 36, with options for plain finish or hot-dip galvanized coating. Both domestic and imported bolts are available.

While the terms are often used interchangeably, there are important distinctions:

• Installation: A bolt is tightened by turning a nut, while a cap screw is tightened by turning the head into a tapped hole.
• Applications: Hex bolts are commonly used in construction, where strength and mechanical properties are critical. Hex cap screws are used in machinery and OEM applications requiring precise dimensional tolerances.
• Specifications: Common hex bolt standards include ASTM A307-A, A354, and F1554, whereas hex cap screws are typically supplied under SAE J429 Grades 2, 5, and 8, or ASTM A449.

Portland Bolt hot-forges each hex bolt head to ensure structural integrity and consistent performance. The company also provides cutting, heading, threading, and hot-dip galvanizing in-house. For custom projects, special tooling can be developed to create nonstandard head dimensions or to stamp the head with your company’s name or logo.

A heavy hex bolt has a larger and thicker head than a standard (finished) hex bolt, providing increased bearing surface. The body diameter remains the same for a given nominal size, but the larger head helps distribute load more effectively in certain applications. Heavy hex bolts are commonly specified in ASTM standards such as A193 and A320 and are widely used in structural and other high-strength bolting assemblies.

Heavy hex bolts are typically used in structural steel connections where specifications such as ASTM F3125 apply. They have larger heads than standard hex bolts, providing increased bearing surface and compatibility with hardened washers used in high-strength bolting assemblies. Standard hex bolts are more commonly used for general-purpose applications, such as wood-to-wood or light-duty fastening, where structural specifications do not apply.

Yes. Portland Bolt can produce hex bolts with nonstandard head dimensions, custom logos, or identifying marks. Custom tooling can be developed to accommodate your specific project or branding requirements.

Standard finishes include plain steel and hot-dip galvanized, both produced in-house to meet ASTM standards. Galvanizing adds corrosion protection for outdoor and marine environments such as docks, bridges, and coastal structures.

Yes, while Portland Bolt distributes common sizes of imported fasteners, all fasteners manufactured in our facilities across the United States are produced from domestic steel.