ASTM F738M-02

1.1 This specification covers the chemical and mechanical requirements for stainless steel metric bolts, screws, and studs with nominal thread diameters M1.6 through M36 and is intended for use in engineering applications requiring general corrosion resistance.

1.2 Eight groups of stainless steel alloys are covered, including three austenitic (Grades A1, A2, and A4), one ferritic (Grade F1), three martensitic (Grades C1, C3, and C4), and one precipitation hardening (Grade P1).

1.3 Twenty property classes are covered, including nine austenitic, two ferritic, eight martensitic, and one precipitation hardening. The property classes with the permissible alloys for each are listed in Table 1.

1.4 This specification is based in concept and content on ISO 3506. The chemical and mechanical requirements specified for all property classes, except as given in , are essentially identical with classes of the same designation in ISO 3506.

1.4.1 This specification includes all of the property classes covered in ISO 3506. Additionally, it includes property classes A1-70, A2-70, A4-70, A1-80, A2-80, and A4-80 for products with nominal thread diameters larger than M20; and four non-ISO property classes, C1-110, C4-110, C3-120; and P1-90.

1.5 Supplementary requirements of an optional nature are provided, applicable only when agreed upon between the manufacturer and the purchaser at the time of the inquiry and order.

1.6 Suitable nuts for use with bolts, screws, and studs included in this specification are covered by Specification F 836M.

1.7 The following safety hazards caveat pertains only to the test method described in this specification.This standard does not purport to address the safety problems associated with its use. It is the responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appropriate safety and health practices and determine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use.