ASTM A193 B7 vs. A193 B7M

Several ASTM specifications are followed by an “M” that denotes it being an equivalent metric standard. While there is actually an A193M Grade B7 specification which is applicable to metric fasteners, this is not the case with ASTM A193 Grade B7M. This is a different grade of material than A193 Grade B7. So how exactly does A193 Grade B7M differ from A193 Grade B7?

There are some significant differences in both the mechanical properties and the testing requirements of A193B7M and A193B7. For instance, A193B7M has a minimum tensile strength of 100 ksi for diameters under 4”. The minimum tensile strength for A193B7 is 125 ksi for diameters under 2-1/2”, and 115 ksi for 2-1/2” – 4” diameter. Hardness is probably the most significant difference between A193B7M & A193B7. The maximum hardness of ASTM A193B7M is 235 HB or 99 HRB, while the maximum hardness of A193B7 is 321 HB or 35 HRC. The most notable difference from a manufacturing perspective is that when providing A193B7M bolts, every individual bolt or stud in the lot must be hardness tested. A193B7M fasteners will also require a different grade of heavy hex nut than A193B7, which would be ASTM A194 Grade 2HM.

While A193B7 is specified relatively often in the construction industry, A193B7M is a specification that is not seen as regularly. This makes it important to understand the differences between the two specifications so that the correct material is ultimately provided.