Comparison of ASTM A325 and A449
These bolts are identical with regard to strength and chemistry. There are very minor differences in the hardness requirements, but the proof load, tensile, and yield strength requirements are the same. Read More...
Concerns Calculating Torque
Torque is a difficult value to calculate accurately, especially for construction fasteners and should be used cautiously. Read More...
Hex Bolts vs. Hex Cap Screws
The differences between a hex cap screw and hex bolt are fairly significant, both from a manufacturing perspective and application standpoint. Read More...
Lag Screw Shear Strength and Design
First, “standard” lag screws that are readily available in the marketplace are ungraded, meaning they are not manufactured to any ASTM specification and have no mechanical properties. Read More...
Grade 55 Steel Properties
The problem with ASTM A108, 1018CF is that there are no mechanical requirements and typically the test reports that accompany this steel reflect the chemistry only and not the strength of the steel. Read More...
Malleable Iron Washer Details
For many years a malleable iron washer has been a common component in heavy timber and marine construction. With a large bearing surface and thick cast design they help prevent the bolt head or nut from pulling through wood connections. Read More...
Rotational Capacity Testing
Per ASTM A325 section 6.3.1, the rotational capacity test is defined as a test, “that is intended to evaluate the presence of a lubricant, the efficiency of the lubricant, and the compatibility of assemblies as represented by the components selected for testing.” Read More...
Steel Prices up 17 Percent
Since steel is the primary raw material used to manufacture our products we closely monitor price changes in the market. To date we have seen slight, periodic increases in the cost of steel. Read More...
Grade C Eliminated From ASTM A307
One recent change with regard to specifications that will have a significant impact on the construction fastener industry is the 2007 elimination of the grade C designation within the ASTM A307 specification. Read More...
SAE Grade 8 and ASTM A490 Differences
In some respects SAE J429 grade 8 bolts and bolts are similar, and in other respects they are different. The first thing to address is the fact that these specifications are covered by different organizations. Read More...