Nuts that are over 2-1/2” diameter do not require a proof load test because most testing equipment in the industry is not large enough to test them effectively. In these cases, a hardness test is an acceptable alternative, unless a proof load test is specifically required by the buyer. Nuts this large would require in excess of 160,000 pounds-force to test the proof load. Since most testing equipment is incapable of this amount, the specifications A194 and A563 have allowed the hardness test as an acceptable alternative for the proof load test for these large diameters of nuts. Portland Bolt stocks many large diameter nuts in plain or galvanized finish. Contact one of our team members for a quote.
From ASTM A194:
“8.2.2.1 The manufacturer shall test the number of nuts specified in 8.1.2.1 following all production heat treatments. Nuts that would require a proof load in excess of 160,000 lb/f or 705 kN shall, unless Supplementary Requirements S1 or S4 are invoked in the purchase order or contract, be proof load tested per Section 8 or cross sectional hardness tested per Annex A3 of Test Methods and Definitions A370. Proof Load test prevail over hardness test in the even a conflict exists relative to minimum strength.”
From ASTM A563:
“6.1.2 Jam nuts, slotted nuts, nuts smaller in width across flats or thickness than standard hex nuts (7.1), and nuts that would require a proof load in excess of 160,000 lb/f may be furnished on the basis of minimum hardness requirements specified for the grade in Table 3, unless proof load testing is specified in the inquiry and purchase order.”
Is it mandatory to perform prof load test for 3/8″ Hex bolt ASTM A194 GR7 as per ASTM?
@Joe- Yes, a 3/8″ A194 gr.7 is required to be proof loaded.
ASTM A194 table 3 has sizes 1.3/8″ and 1.1/2″ with proof load values above 160,000 lbf.
Supplementary requirements, S4 do not show values in table S4.1 for these sizes.
Can you advise what load we test to?
@Darren- We can see where that is laid out in a confusing manner. The nuts should be tested to the values listed in table 3. The value is calculated by multiplying the proof stress in psi by the tensile stress area of the nut. Example, for 1-1/2-8 A194 2H nut; 150,000psi x 1.492 sq in = 261,100 lbf.
Do you do proof load, clamp load, and prevailing torque tests on nuts?
@John- The nuts we sell would have a proofload test performed, but the other tests are not normally performed. We could however, perform them upon request.
In the event that you do require proof load testing of your nuts, TUV has a lab in Aliquippa, PA that has a press that is calibrated up to 1,000,000 pounds. Please contact me if you need any more information.
@Frank – Thanks, we’ll keep you in mind if we need to have anything tested.
i want to know proof loading testing for nuts
@Dieu – we are happy to answer any specific questions you might have regarding nut proof load testing.