How To Measure Metric Bolts

How To Measure Metric Bolts
 
 

Above we have a M8 x 1.0 x 24mm bolt.
Most packing will either list it two different ways: M8 x 1.0 x 24, or M8 x 24mm.
If you’re used to Imperial measurements, you likely not know what those numbers mean.

So lets break it down.

 

Thread Diameter

Thread diameter which is the width of the bolts threaded section in millimetres.
This is displayed with a capital M before the millimetre measurement, e.g. a 6mm diameter would be written as M6 for the thread diameter.  
However, if you used micrometer, the measurement would probably not measure 6mm exactly. If the measurement came out at was 5.75mm, you round up to 6mmto work out the bolt diameter.

Thread Pitch

The thread pitch is the distance between threads measured in millimetres.
For example, a 1.00 thread pitch means that the distance between one thread to the next is 1.00mm. This isn't always listed on the box. 

Thread pitch is either 'coarse' or 'fine' thread. Fine thread bolts have more threads on them, in a tighter spiral. The greater amount of threads allows for more grip from the screw. These are used in the automotive trade where thing like engines are under huge amounts pressure, and need a tighter grip without having a longer bolt.

Most threads available on the market are coarse threads. A fine thread bolt will be clearly marked.

 

Thread Length

To measure length, start from right below the head, including any shank, and measure to the tip. This rule for bolt length is applicable for the hex head, socket head, and button head type of bolts. For countersunk bolts, you must measure the entire length as in the chart below.

 

How To Measure Metric Bolts The M in M8 stands for Metric
As an example, here are are boxes of Scrooz Fasteners Carriage Bolts. The boxes here display their size as M8 x 65mm bolts.

 

How To Measure Metric Bolts
The thread length is always different between countersunk and non-countersunk bolts!

 

How To Measure Metric Bolts - Thread Pitch
A close up shot of hex bolt with 1mm thread pitch

 

You can check out our full range of bolts here: Bolts

 

Thanks for reading our latest blog entry 

Best Regards,

The Scrooz Fasteners Team 

www.scrooz.com.au

 


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