Torque Settings
Torque Settings
Torque Settings
The below estimated torque calculations are only offered as a guide. Use of its content by
anyone is the sole responsibility of that person and they assume all risk.
The importance of correct bolt tightening cannot be over emphasized. Determining the
correct torque can however present problems.
Approximately 90% of the applied torque is employed in overcoming friction, 50% at the
bearing face of the nut and 40% between the mating threads. It can therefore be seen that
only something in the order of 10% effort is employed inducing axial load in the bolt.
Due to many variables that affect the torque-tension relationship like human error,
surface texture, and lubrication the only way to determine the correct torque is through
experimentation using required lubricants and actual parts under actual joint and
assembly conditions.
The torque figures quoted are approximate figures and are available to fasteners in the self-
colour condition only.
The figures below do not take into account the effect of plated finishes, special lubricants or
the effect of hard and smooth mating surfaces such as hardened washers etc.
The torque figures quoted have been based on a theoretical bolt load equal to 85% of the
proof load of the bolting material. Where the proof load is not quoted in the specification this
has been taken as 95% of the yield stress.
Metric Bolting
M20 245 46.2 119 162 194 185 476 647 776
M24 353 66.6 171 233 280 320 822 1119 1342
M30 561 106 272 370 444 635 1634 2223 2667
M36 817 154 397 540 647 1110 2855 3885 4660
Recommended Tightening Torques Zinc Plated Finish
Metric Grade 12.9 Plated Metric Grade 10.9 Plated Metric Grade 8.8 Plated
Course Course Course
Pitch Ncm in-lb Pitch Ncm in-lb Pitch Ncm in-lb
Metric Grade 12.9 Plated Metric Grade 10.9 Plated Metric Grade 8.8 Plated
Course Course Course
Pitch Nm ft-lb Pitch Nm ft-lb Pitch Nm ft-lb
M6 14 10 M6 12 9 M6 8 6
M8 34 25 M8 29 21 M8 20 15
( ) Non-Preferred
Zinc Plated co-efficient of friction = 125 (zinc at 8 microns thick).
All torque values are for general guidance.
Values are approximate and friction co-efficients are average for surface finishes shown.
WARNING:
Due to variables in surface and lubrication conditions, determination of service torque values shown
should be reached experimentally using required lubricants and actual parts.