ASTM F606/F606M-24 PDF

Full title and description

Standard Test Methods for Determining the Mechanical Properties of Externally and Internally Threaded Fasteners, Washers, Direct Tension Indicators, and Rivets (ASTM F606/F606M‑24). This document establishes standardized procedures for mechanical testing used to determine hardness, proof load, yield and tensile properties, tension and shear behaviour, and related test methods for externally and internally threaded fasteners, washers, direct tension indicators (DTIs) and rivets.

Abstract

ASTM F606/F606M‑24 specifies test methods for determining mechanical properties of externally and internally threaded fasteners, washers, direct tension indicators and rivets. The standard describes procedures for product hardness, proof load (multiple methods), axial and wedge tension tests of full‑size products, tension testing of machined specimens (yield point, yield strength, tensile strength, elongation, reduction of area, total extension at fracture), cone proof tests for nuts, hardness and compression tests for washers and DTIs, rivet hardness tests, and specific tests for embrittlement, decarburization and carburization. Units are provided in inch‑pound and SI (F606M) formats; the two unit systems are to be used independently.

General information

• Status: Superseded/withdrawn (superseded by ASTM F606/F606M‑25, 2025 edition).
• Publication date: November 1, 2024 (designation F606/F606M‑24).
• Publisher: ASTM International (Committee F16: Fasteners).
• ICS / categories: 21.060.01 (Fasteners in general).
• Edition / version: F606/F606M‑24 (metric companion F606M included in the designation).
• Number of pages: 19 pages.

Scope

These test methods cover establishment of procedures for conducting mechanical tests to determine properties of externally and internally threaded fasteners, washers, direct tension indicators and rivets. Where product standards specify different or additional requirements, the product standard controls; absent product‑specific instructions, the procedures in F606/F606M apply. The standard addresses hardness, proof load (multiple methods), axial and wedge tension testing of full‑size products, tension testing of machined specimens (including yield point and offset yield), total extension at fracture, single shear, cone proof tests for nuts, washer hardness and compression, DTI compression, rivet hardness, embrittlement of metallic coatings, and determination of decarburization and carburization.

Key topics and requirements

• Product hardness measurement methods for external and internal fasteners, washers and rivets.
• Proof load determination — Method 1 (length measurement), Method 2 (yield strength) and Method 3 (uniform hardness) and special methods for certain materials.
• Axial tension and wedge tension tests for full‑size fasteners and studs.
• Tension testing of machined specimens: yield point, yield strength (offset and extension under load), tensile strength, elongation and reduction of area, and total extension at fracture.
• Single shear testing procedures for applicable fasteners and rivets.
• Cone proof load testing for internally threaded fasteners (nuts).
• Hardness and compression testing procedures for washers and direct tension indicators, including through‑hardened, carburized and stainless/nonferrous washers.
• Test methods for detecting embrittlement of metallic‑coated externally threaded fasteners.
• Procedures to determine decarburization and carburization in metallic fasteners.
• Dual‑unit treatment: separate inch‑pound (imperial) and SI (metric) requirements — do not mix unit systems.

Typical use and users

Used by test laboratories, fastener manufacturers, quality and inspection engineers, procurement/specification authors, and design engineers across industries that rely on threaded fasteners and rivets (aerospace, automotive, construction, heavy equipment, machinery, rail, and general manufacturing). The standard is typically referenced by product specifications, purchase orders, quality plans and certification documents to define accepted test methods for verifying mechanical properties of threaded components and associated hardware.

Related standards

Commonly referenced companion and related documents include other ASTM F16 fastener product and specification standards (product‑specific fastener standards and structural bolt specifications), applicable SAE fastener requirements (e.g., SAE J429 family for mechanical requirements), and international equivalents such as ISO 898 (mechanical properties of fasteners). Users should consult the individual product standards that specify property requirements and any referenced test methods called out in those documents.

Keywords

fasteners; threaded fasteners; washers; rivets; direct tension indicators; proof load; yield strength; tensile test; hardness; cone proof load; embrittlement; decarburization; carburization; mechanical properties; ASTM F606; F606M.

FAQ

Q: What is this standard?

A: ASTM F606/F606M‑24 is a set of standardized test methods for determining mechanical properties of externally and internally threaded fasteners, washers, direct tension indicators and rivets.

Q: What does it cover?

A: It covers procedures for hardness testing, proof load determination (several methods), axial and wedge tension tests on full‑size products, tension testing of machined specimens (yield, tensile strength, elongation, reduction of area, total extension at fracture), single shear, cone proof testing for nuts, washer and DTI tests, rivet hardness testing, and tests for embrittlement and carburization/decarburization. Inch‑pound and SI (metric) unit systems are provided as separate sets of values.

Q: Who typically uses it?

A: Test labs, fastener manufacturers, QA/QC and inspection personnel, design and materials engineers, and procurement/spec writers in industries that use or supply threaded fasteners and related hardware.

Q: Is it current or superseded?

A: The F606/F606M‑24 edition was published November 1, 2024. It has since been superseded by a later edition (designated F606/F606M‑25, 2025 edition). Users should confirm which edition is required by their product specifications or procurement documents and use the active edition where applicable.

Q: Is it part of a series?

A: Yes. F606/F606M is a test‑methods standard maintained by ASTM Committee F16 (fasteners) and is used alongside product‑specific ASTM fastener standards and companion metric designations (the “M” designation). It is part of the set of standards governing fastener material, mechanical and dimensional requirements.

Q: What are the key keywords?

A: fasteners, proof load, tensile test, yield strength, hardness, washers, rivets, direct tension indicators, embrittlement, decarburization, ASTM F606, F606M.