Newest FAQs

What is the length tolerance on ASTM A193 Grade B7 bolts?

The tolerances for A193-B7 are governed by section 4 of the specification, which states, “Material and fasteners supplied to this specification shall conform to the requirements of Specification A 962/A 962M. These requirements include test methods, finish, thread dimensions, marking, certification, optional supplementary requirements, and others.”   Studs (also known as All Thread Rods) would be... Read more

My bolt supplier said they can substitute ASTM F1554 Grade 55 anchor bolts for the F1554 Grade 36 anchor bolts that are specified on my project. Is this correct?

ASTM F1554 does specifically state in Section 6.4 that the manufacturing company can substitute weldable F1554 Grade 55 material in place of F1554 Grade 36 material at the option of the manufacturing company. So technically your supplier is correct that they can substitute F1554 Grade 55 for F1554 Grade 36 at any time, as long... Read more

I am installing some A325 bolts, and I am using direct-tension-indicator (DTI) washers. Does the DTI replace the F436 washer that I would normally use, or do I still use a standard F436 washer?

According to the Research Council on Structural Connections (RCSC December 31, 2009 edition), an F436 washer is used in addition to a DTI washer with an A325 structural bolt.  RCSC’s Specification for Structural Joints Using ASTM A325 or A490 Bolts, Section 6 Use of Washers, states that a ASTM F436 washer is always used, but... Read more

Are F1554 grade 36 bolts always weldable?

F1554 Grade 36 bolts are considered weldable, and the current version of the specification specifically states this. Section 6.4 of the ASTM 1554-15 specification reads as follows: 6.4 Weldability — Grade 36 anchor bolts are considered weldable F1554 also allows for weldable Grade 55 to be substituted at the manufacturer’s discretion. The specification also notes... Read more

Does Portland Bolt make square F436 hardened washers?

Yes. There is a common misconception that ASTM F436 hardened washers are only available in the standard circular sizes. However, the F436 specification covers four defined styles of hardened washers, while also allowing for custom dimension washers as well. The four defined styles are: Circular Beveled Clipped Extra Thick These four styles each have specific tables... Read more

Is ASTM A36 steel round bar always weldable?

The ASTM A36 specification reads as follows: When the steel is to be welded, a welding procedure suitable for the grade of steel and intended use or service is to be utilized. See Appendix X3 of Specification A6/A6M for information on weldability. Appendix X3 of ASTM A6/6M states: Weldability is a term that usually refers... Read more

How do tie rods attach to a structure?

Tie rods are attached by sliding a gusset plate or knife plate, which is fastened to a structure, in between the ears of a clevis. A clevis pin or A325 structural bolt, is then assembled through the pin holes on the clevis and through the hole in the plate. Gusset plates are attached to the... Read more

Are ASTM A307 bolts and rods always weldable?

A307 bolts, rods, and studs are not always weldable.  For this grade to be weldable it must meet the supplementary requirement S1 of the ASTM A307 specification.  This supplement provides assurances of weldability by additional chemical composition restrictions and by a carbon equivalent formula.  In addition, “Because of the embrittling effects of welding temperatures on... Read more

What are the grade marking requirements for SAE rods or studs?

Answer: SAE J429 is a Society of Automotive Engineers specification for bolts covering “the mechanical and material requirements for inch-series steel bolts, screws, studs, sems1, and U-bolts used in automotive and related industries in sizes to 1-1/2 in inclusive.” From SAE J429 regarding studs: “The term ‘stud’ as referred to herein applied to a cylindrical... Read more

What is the all thread rod equivalent for A325 and A490?

In 2015, ASTM created a new, all-inclusive specification F3125 to cover A325 and A490 bolts under the same specification.  There were many changes made to the specification, but it is still not acceptable to manufacture fully threaded rods in the A325 or A490 specifications.  The new F3125 specification states in section 4.1.3: Bolts with thread... Read more

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