Aug 2025
ASTM A354
ASTM A354 specifies the chemical and mechanical requirements for quenched and tempered alloy steel bolts, studs, and other externally threaded fasteners up to 4 inches in diameter. This standard includes two strength levels, Grades BC and BD, which are summarized below. The specification does not restrict the configuration of the fastener, meaning it can be produced as a headed bolt, bent bolt, or threaded rod.
A354 Grades
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BD
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Grade BD fasteners offer higher strength than Grade BC and are comparable in strength to ASTM F3125 Grade A490 bolts. Unlike A490, however, the A354 specification places no restriction on configuration. Since A490 bolts are limited to structural applications and a maximum size of 1-1/2” diameter, A354 Grade BD is often recommended for anchor bolts, threaded rods, large-diameter bolts, or other custom configurations where similar strength properties are required. Note: Magnetic particle testing is not a default requirement for A354 BD, but it may be specified as a supplemental condition. |
| BC |
Grade BC fasteners provide lower strength compared to Grade BD. They can be used as an alternative to F3125 Grade A325 bolts in cases where size or configuration limitations prevent the use of A325. This makes Grade BC a practical choice for certain structural and non-standard applications. |
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A354 Mechanical Properties
| Grade |
Size |
Tensile, ksi (min.) |
Yield, ksi (min.) |
Elong % (min.) |
RA % (min.) |
Hardness, HRC |
| BC |
1/4 – 2-1/2 |
125 |
109 |
16 |
50 |
26 – 36 |
| Over 2-1/2 |
115 |
99 |
16 |
45 |
22 – 33 |
| BD |
All Sizes |
150 – 173 |
130 |
14 |
40 |
33 – 38 |
A354 Chemical Properties
| Element |
All Sizes of Grade BC,
Grade BD through 2-1/4” dia. |
Grade BD over 2-1/4” |
| Carbon, % |
0.30 – 0.53 |
0.35 – 0.53 |
| Manganese, % min |
0.60 |
0.60 |
| Phosphorus, % max |
0.035 |
0.035 |
| Sulfur, % max |
0.040 |
0.040 |
| Boron, % max |
0.003 |
0.003 |
| Nickel, % min |
— |
0.40 |
| Chromium, % min |
— |
0.40 |
| Molybdenum, % min |
— |
0.15 |
| Other Alloying Elements |
* |
* |
|
* Steel is considered alloy when the maximum range for manganese exceeds 1.65%,
or when a definite minimum content of chromium, molybdenum, nickel,
or any other alloying element is specified to achieve desired properties.
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A354 Recommended Hardware
| Grade |
Finish |
Nut |
Washer |
| BC |
Plain |
A563C Heavy Hex |
F436 |
| Galvanized |
A563DH Heavy Hex |
F436 |
| BD |
All Finishes |
A563DH Heavy Hex |
F436 |
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* Nuts of other grades and styles having specified proof load stresses greater than the specified grade and style of nut are acceptable.
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