Introduction To Our
Specifications
ASTM and AASHTO standards set the rules for how bolts and fasteners are made, tested, and used. They make sure every product meets strict requirements for strength, hardness, and dimensions. ASTM standards like F1554 and A193 B7 define what’s needed for reliable performance in industrial settings, while AASHTO focuses on transportation infrastructure such as bridges and highways. By following these standards, manufacturers help ensure safety, consistency, and trust across North American construction and engineering projects.
ASTM
These standards also take corrosion resistance, coatings, and mechanical properties into account. This helps guarantee reliable performance in demanding industries like construction and automotive work.
Manufacturing Specifications
The ASTM A307 specification covers carbon steel bolts and studs ranging from 1/4″ through 4″ diameter. This is your everyday, run of the mill bolt specification often manufactured using A36 round bar. There are three grades A, B, and C* which denote tensile strength, configuration, and application. Refer to the Mechanical Properties Chart for the subtle strength differences within each grade.
ASTM A36 outlines the chemical composition and mechanical properties of carbon steel plates, bars, and shapes designed for structural use. It is commonly applied in construction for general structural projects.
AASHTO M314 covers externally threaded steel anchor bolts used to secure structural elements—such as columns, sign supports, bearing plates, and other components—to concrete foundations. The bolts may be straight, headed, or bent, and are available in three grades (36, 55, and 105), reflecting different minimum yield strengths. It is functionally equivalent to ASTM F1554.
ASTM A193 covers alloy and stainless steel bolts, studs, and threaded rods designed for high-temperature or high-pressure service. Commonly used in pressure vessels, valves, flanges, and piping systems, it includes multiple grades such as B7 (alloy steel, heat-treated), B8 (stainless steel), and others tailored for strength, corrosion resistance, or elevated temperature performance.
ASTM A320 covers alloy and stainless steel bolts, studs, and other externally threaded fasteners intended for low-temperature service. These fasteners are designed to provide reliable toughness and strength in subzero applications, such as cryogenic equipment, pressure vessels, and piping. Common grades include L7 (alloy steel) and B8 (stainless steel), often paired with matching ASTM A194 nuts.
ASTM A325 was a specification for heavy hex structural bolts made from medium-carbon steel, heat-treated for strength. These bolts were widely used in steel-to-steel structural connections such as buildings and bridges, paired with F436 washers and A563 nuts. ASTM A325 has since been replaced by ASTM F3125, which now consolidates several structural bolt standards.
ASTM A354 covers quenched and tempered alloy steel bolts, studs, and other externally threaded fasteners with diameters up to 4 inches. Designed for general engineering applications requiring high strength, A354 fasteners are available in two grades—Grade BC (medium strength) and Grade BD (higher strength). Unlike structural bolt standards such as A325, A354 fasteners are not restricted to structural connections and can be used in a wide range of mechanical and industrial applications.
ASTM A449 covers medium-strength, quenched and tempered steel bolts, studs, and threaded rods from 1/4″ to 3″ in diameter. It provides mechanical properties similar to ASTM A325 structural bolts but is more versatile, as it applies to both general-purpose and structural applications. A449 fasteners are commonly used in construction, machinery, and equipment where a strong, heat-treated bolt is required.
ASTM F1554 is a specification for straight and bent anchor bolts used to attach structural supports to concrete foundations. It covers three strength grades—36, 55, and 105—which correspond to increasing tensile strength levels. F1554 anchor bolts may be supplied either plain, galvanized, or coated, and can be headed, bent, or straight rods with threads. This standard is widely used in construction for securing columns, poles, and equipment to concrete.
ASTM A194 covers carbon, alloy, and stainless steel nuts designed for high-pressure, high-temperature, and special-purpose applications, often used alongside ASTM A193 bolts and studs in critical assemblies. The standard requires Heavy Hex Series dimensions (ANSI B18.2.2), with Class 2B thread fits—UNC for sizes up to 1 inch, and UNC or 8UN for larger sizes. It includes multiple grades, such as the widely used quenched-and-tempered Grade 2H, as well as alloy and stainless grades like 7, 8, and 8M for improved strength, corrosion resistance, or cryogenic performance.
ASTM A563 covers the chemical and mechanical requirements for carbon and alloy steel nuts used with bolts, studs, and other externally threaded fasteners. The standard includes multiple grades and styles, such as hex and heavy hex, with varying strength levels to match different bolt specifications. It is commonly referenced with structural bolts like ASTM A325 and A490.
ASTM A36 outlines the chemical composition and mechanical properties of carbon steel plates, bars, and shapes designed for structural use. It is commonly applied in construction for general structural projects.
ASTM A153 covers hot-dip galvanizing for stel hardware. For fasteners, ASTM F2329 was introduced in 2005 to replace A153 Class C, specifically covering bolts, screws, nuts, washers, and other threaded parts. ASTM A123 is another related standard for hot-dip galvanizing larger steel products, and the AASHTO equivalent to A153 is M232.
ASTM A572 is a specification for high-strength, low-alloy columbium-vanadium structural steel. It covers plates, bars, and shapes intended for use in riveted, bolted, or welded construction of bridges, buildings, and other structural applications. Available in multiple grades (42, 50, 55, 60, and 65), A572 provides improved strength-to-weight ratio and weldability compared to standard carbon steels.
ASTM F436 covers hardened steel washers used with bolts, nuts, and other fasteners in structural applications. These washers are heat-treated for strength and durability and are available in both plain and zinc-coated finishes. Commonly paired with high-strength bolts such as ASTM A325 and A490, F436 washers distribute load and help prevent damage to the connected surface
ASTM F844 covers general-purpose, unhardened steel washers used with bolts, nuts, and other fasteners. These washers are typically thinner and softer than structural-grade washers, serving mainly to provide a smooth bearing surface and distribute load in non-critical applications.
ASTM A36 outlines the chemical composition and mechanical properties of carbon steel plates, bars, and shapes designed for structural use. It is commonly applied in construction for general structural projects.
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FAQs
The most commonly used ASTM specifications include:
• ASTM A307 – Carbon steel bolts and studs for general use.
• ASTM F1554 – Anchor bolts with grades 36, 55, and 105 for structural applications.
• ASTM A193 – Alloy and stainless steel bolts for high-temperature or high-pressure service.
• ASTM A449 – Quenched and tempered steel bolts and studs.
• ASTM A354 – High-strength bolts, screws, and studs.
Each specification regulates material properties, mechanical performance, and marking requirements of the relevant bolts.
There are several ASTM standards that apply to the manufacture of nuts and washers, depending on their material, strength, and intended use. The most common ones include:
For nuts:
ASTM A563 – Covers carbon and alloy steel nuts for general structural and mechanical use.
ASTM A194/A194M – Applies to nuts made from carbon, alloy, and stainless steel, typically used with high-pressure or high-temperature bolts (like ASTM A193 bolts).
ASTM F594 – Covers stainless steel nuts for general use.
For washers:
ASTM F436 – Specifies hardened steel washers for structural applications, commonly used with ASTM A325 and A490 bolts.
ASTM F844 – Covers general-purpose, unhardened flat washers.
ASTM F959 – Applies to load-indicating washers used in structural bolting.
Standards You Can Count On
Acero fasteners meet strict ASTM and AASHTO standards, so you know they’ll perform when it matters. Every bolt, nut, and washer is tested and verified, giving you confidence on every job. Request a quote today and see how dependable fasteners can simplify your work.
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