Scope

The ASTM A354 specification covers the chemical and mechanical requirements of quenched and tempered alloy steel bolts, studs, and other externally threaded fasteners 4″ and under in diameter.

Two strength levels, grade BC and grade BD, are summarized in the chart below. This specification is unrestricted in its configuration and can be a headed bolt, bent bolt, or threaded rod.

A354 Grades

A354 BD

A354 BC

A354 grade BD bolts are higher in strength than A354 grade BC and equal in strength to ASTM A490 bolts. Unlike ASTM A490 however, the A354 BD specification is unrestricted in its configuration. Since A490 bolts are heavy hex structural bolts and do not exceed 1-1/2″ diameter, specification A354 BD should be considered for anchor bolts, threaded rods, other styles of headed bolts, and bolts larger than 1-1/2″ diameter where similar mechanical properties are desired. A354 grade BD does not require a magnetic particle test as is required by the A490 specification.

Research conducted on bolts of similar material and manufacture indicates that hydrogen-stress cracking or stress cracking corrosion may occur on hot-dip galvanized Grade BD bolts.  For more information about this subject, please see our FAQ that addresses galvanizing of high strength bolts.

Lower in strength than grade BD.

A354 Mechanical Properties

Grade

Size

Tensile, ksi, min

Yield, ksi, min

Elong %, min

RA %, min

BC

1/4 – 2-1/2

125

109

16

501

2-5/8 – 4

115

99

16

45

BD

1/4 – 2-1/2

150

130

14

40

2-5/8 – 4

140

115

14

40

A354 Chemical Properties

Element

Sizes 1/4 to 1-1/2

Sizes above 1-1/2

Carbon

0.30 – 0.53%

0.35 – 0.53%

Phosphorus, max

0.035%

0.035%

Sulfur, max

0.040%

0.05%

A354 Recommended Hardware

Nuts

Washers

Grade BC

Grade BD

Plain

Galvanized

Plain

A563C Heavy Hex

A563DH Heavy Hex

A563DH Heavy Hex

F436

* Nuts of other grades load stresses greater than the specified grade are suitable.  Follow the link for an ASTM A563 Nut Compatibility Chart.