Newest FAQs

What is the turn of the nut method, and does it apply to anchor bolts?

The turn of the nut method is a very popular and reasonably reliable method for tensioning (F3125) A325 and A490 structural bolts without the need for expensive torque wrenches or tension measuring devices. It is a simple guide that tells the user to rotate the nut a specified amount depending on the bolt length and... Read more

Can A563 Grade DH nuts be used with A193 Grade B7 bolts?

The short answer is no. The A193 specification is specifically designed for fasteners being used in high temperature, high pressure situations. In the ASTM specification, it states that the nuts shall conform to the A194 specification and it does not provide an alternate substitute. Though A563-DH and A194-2H are very similar, they are not interchangeable... Read more

B7 Hex Head Bolt
Does the ASTM F1554 specification allow metric sizes?

The ASTM F1554 specification does not prohibit or allow metric diameter F1554 anchor bolts.  It does not address the subject of metric dimensions at all.  So theoretically, if a manufacturer can locate metric steel round bar that meets both the chemical and mechanical requirements of the specification, metric F1554 anchor bolts can be provided.  Since... Read more

Stamped F1554 rods
What is the purpose of the steel nubs or fins on timber bolt heads?

Timber bolts, also referred to as economy bolts in the Pacific Northwest, are designed with two nubs on the underside of the head which bite into wood and prevent the head from spinning in the timber during nut assembly.   The nubs under the head require a wood bearing surface to bite into, making a steel... Read more

Does Portland Bolt sell steel round bar?

Portland Bolt is a nonstandard bolt manufacturing company that specializes in manufacturing custom bolts and other nonstandard construction fasteners from steel round bar.  Our extensive inventory of steel round bar is used solely for the purpose of manufacturing fasteners for our customers.  It is our desire to always provide the finished product by using the... Read more

Why is the steel on my mill test report a different specification than the bolts I ordered?

Steel is produced by rolling mills to specifications that cover steel shapes, plates, and bars.  Portland Bolt uses steel round bar to manufacture bolts to specifications that cover threaded fasteners. General steel specifications, such as ASTM A36 and A572 or AISI 1045 and 4140 are manufactured to specific chemical and (sometimes) mechanical requirements.  Heat analysis... Read more

Steel Racks
Does F1554 Tell Me the Configuration of the Bolt?

Calling out ASTM F1554 (grade 36, 55, or 105) indicates the grade of material, but the specification itself does not require a specific configuration and does not indicate whether or not the bolt is galvanized. F1554 is a fastener specification which covers steel anchor bolts intended for anchoring structural supports to concrete foundations. The specification provides... Read more

Is the thread length of A193 Grade B7 bolts the same as A325 bolts?

In short, no, the thread length of A193 B7 bolts is not the same as the thread length of A325 bolts. The F3125 Grade A325 specification covers heavy hex structural bolts which have standard fixed thread lengths shown in the table below. The thread lengths can be altered, but A325 bolts with nonstandard thread lengths must... Read more

B7 Hex Head Bolt
Why are larger grade 2 and grade 5 bolts less strong than smaller diameter bolts?

The reason is similar but different for the drop in strength of grade 2 and grade 5 fasteners. For J429 grade 2 fasteners, the drop is due to the manufacturing process. Small, mass produced cap screws are cold formed by drawing and forming wire. The wire, as it is cold formed, work hardens which increases... Read more

Are stock tie rod assemblies available?

Unfortunately not. Due to the custom nature of each assembly’s unique diameter, length, and right hand and left hand thread requirements, we do not have a way to inventory “standard” assemblies. Clevises also have several options per size including tap size, right or left hand threading, pin size, and grip which is the reason these... Read more

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