Asmeansi B18 18.4M 1987

A NA M E R I C A NN A T I O N A LS T A N D A R D
Inspection and Quality

Assurance for Fasteners
for Highly Specialized
Engineered Applications
ASMEIANSI B18.18.4M-1987
REAFFIRMED 1999
FOR CURRENT COMMlnEE PERSONNEL

PLEASE SEE ASME MANUAL AS-11
SPONSORED A N D PUBLISHED BY
THE A M E R I C A NS O C I E T Y OF M E C H A N I C A LE N G I N E E R S
United
Engineering
Center 3 4 5 East 4 7 t h S t r e e t N e w York, N. Y. 1 O 0 1 7
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Copyright ASME International

Provided by IHS under license with ASME
No reproduction or networking permitted without license from IHS Not for Resale
Date of Issuance: March 31, 1987
This Standard will be revised when the Society approves the issuance of a new edition.
There will be no addenda or written interpretations of the requirements of this Standard
issued to thisEdition.
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This code or standard was developed under procedures accredited as meeting the criteria for
American National Standards. The Consensus Committee that approved thecode or standard was
balanced to assure that individuals from competent and concerned interestshave had an opportunity
to participate. The proposed codeor standard was made available for public review and comment
whichprovidesanopportunityforadditionalpublicinputfromindustry, academia, regulatory
agencies, and the public-at-large.
ASME does not "approve," "rate," or "endorse" any item, construction, proprietary device, or
activity.
ASME does not take any position with respect to the validity of any patent rights asserted in
connection with any items mentioned in this document, and does not undertake t o insure anyone
utilizing a standard against liability for infringement ofany applicable Letters Patent, nor assume any
such liability. Usersof a code or standard are expressly advised that determination of the validity of
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their
Participation by federal agency representativelsl or personk) affiliated with industry is nott o be
interpreted as government or industryendorsement of this code or standard.
ASME accepts responsibility for only those interpretations issued in accordance with governing
ASME proceduresandpolicies which preclude the issuance of interpretations by individual
volunteers.
No partof this document may be reproduced in any form,

in an electronic retrieval systemor ptherwise,
without the prior written permission of the publisher.
Copyright O 1987 by
THE AMERICAN SOCIETY OF MECHANICAL ENGINEERS
All Rights Reserved
Printed in U.S.A.

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FOREWORD
(This Foreword is not part of ASME/ANSI B1 8.18.4M-1987.)
American National Standards Committee B18 for the standardizationof bolts, screws,
nuts, rivets, and similar fasteners was organized in March 1922as Sectional CommitteeB18
under the aegis of the American Engineering Standards Committee (later the American
Standards Association, then the United States of America Standards Institute and, as of
October 6,1969, theAmerican NationalStandards Institute,Inc.) with the Society of Auto-
motive Engineers and the American Society of Mechanical Engineers as joint sponsors.
Subcommittee 18 ofCommittee B18 was established in September 1978 to develop a doc-
ument to cover the quality assuranceprovisions for internally and externally threaded met-
ric fasteners and accessories or associated parts.
At the March 1979 meeting of Subcommittee 18, it wasagreed that thequality assurance
document should be circulated for subcommittee consideration as a proposed standard.
Subcommittee acceptance of the content ensued and thedocument was approved by letter
ballot to the American National Standards Committee B18 on March 21, 1980.
The standardwas subsequently approved by the Secretariat and submitted to theAmeri-
can National Standards Institute for designation as an American National Standard; it was
designated ANSI B18.18.4M-1982 and approved on September 14, 1982.
A periodic review of the standard,undertaken by the Subcommittee in 1985, resulted in
agreement that thedocument be revisedto allow it to be used for inch as well as metric prod-
ucts. This was done by deleting the word “metric” from the title as well as from each place
in the standard where it would inhibit the use of the document for inch as well as metric
products. By retaining the “M” in the designator, the standard can be used for both inch
and metric products without having to change anyreferences made. A proposal containing
these changes, as well as editorial corrections, was prepared and balloted by letter ballot to
ASME Committee B18. Following approval by ASME, the proposal was submitted to the
American National Standards Institute anddesignated an American National Standard on
January 16, 1987.
iii

ASME STANDARDS COMMITTEE B18
Standardization of Bolts, Nuts, Rivets, Screws, Washers, and Similar Fasteners
(The following is theroster of the Committee a t the time of approval of this Standard.)
OFFICERS
J. B. Levy, Chairman
H. W. Ellison, Vice Chairman
E. Schwartz, Vice Chairman
R. W. McGinnis, Secretary
COMMITTEE PERSONNEL
AMERICAN SOCIETY OF AGRICULTURAL ENGINEERS

E. R. Friesth, Don E. Williams Co., Rock Island, Illinois
AMERICAN SOCIETY OF MECHANICAL ENGINEERS

A. R. Machell, Webster, New York
K. E. McCullough, SPS Technologies Inc., Newtown. Pennsylvania
ENGINE MANUFACTURERS ASSOCIATION

G. A. Russ. Cummins Engine Co., Columbus. Indiana
FARM & INDUSTRIAL EQUIPMENT INSTITUTE

D. A. Clever. Deere & Co., Moline. Illinois
HAND TOOL INSTITUTE

R. B. Wright, Wright Tool Co., Barberton, Ohio
INDUSTRIAL FASTENERS INSTITUTE

D. J. Broomfield, Illinois Tool Works Inc.,Elgin, Illinois
D. A. Garrison, Russell, Burdsall & Ward Corp., Rock Falls, Illinois
R. M. Harris, Bethlehem Steel Corp., Lebanon, Pennsylvania
D. Littel, Greensburg, Pennsylvania
J. C. McMurray, Alternate, Russell, Burdsall & Ward Inc., Cleveland, Ohio
J. S. Orlando, Bethlehem Steel Corp., Lebanon, Pennsylvania
E. Sterling, Emhart Corp., Cambellsville, Kentucky
J. A. Trilling, Holo-Krome Co., West Hartford, Connecticut
S. Vass, Lake Erie Screw Corp., Cleveland, Ohio
C. J. Wilson, Industrial Fasteners Institute, Cleveland. Ohio
METAL CUTTING TOOL INSTITUTE

D. Emanueli, TRW-Greenfield Tap & Die, Greenfield, Massachusetts
NATIONAL ELECTRICAL MANUFACTURERS ASSOCIATION

J. B. Levy, General Electric Co., Schenectady, New York
W. F. Montavon, Alternate, National Electrical Manufacturers Association, Washington, D.C.
F. F. Weingruber, Westinghouse Electric Corp., Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
NATIONAL FASTENERS DISTRIBUTORS ASSOCIATION

J. F. Sullivan, Accurate Fasteners, Inc., South Boston, Massachusetts
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SOCIETY OF AUTOMOTIVE ENGINEERS
H. W. Ellison, General Motors Corp., Warren, Michigan
R. S. Piotrowski, Mack Trucks Inc., Allentown, Pennsylvania
TUBULAR & MACHINE INSTITUTE

R. M. Byrne, Trade Association Management Inc., Tarrytown, New York
J. G. Zeratsky, National Rivet & Manufacturing Co., Waupun, Wisconsin
U. S. DEPARTMENT OF THE ARMY

M. E. Taylor, U. S. Army Armament, Munitions & Chemical Command, Dover, New Jersey
A. Herskovitz, Alternate, U. S. Army Armament, Munitions & Chemical Command, Dover, New Jersey
J. E. Long, Alternate, U. S . Army Tank Command, Warren, Michigan
U. S. DEPARTMENT OF DEFENSE
E. Schwartz, Defense Industrial Supply Center, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
L. Pieninck, Alternate, Defense Industrial Supply Center, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
U. S. DEPARTMENT OF THE NAVY

J. E. Hass, Department of the Navy, Washington, D.C.
M. S. Orysh, Alternate, Department of the Navy, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
INDIVIDUAL MEMBERS
A. R. Breed, Lakewood, Ohio
R. A. Flor, Chrysler Corp., Detroit, Michigan
G. A. Gobb. Ford Motor Co., Dearborn, Michigan
F. E. Graves, F. E. Graves Associates, Fairfield, Connecticut
J. J. Nassset, Clark Equipment Co., Battle Creek, Michigan
PERSONNEL OF SUBCOMMITTEE 18 - INSPECTION AND QUALITY CONTROL

1. N. Kenig, Chairman, Defense Industrial Supply Center, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
R. Flynn, General Motors Corp., Warren, Michigan
K . E. McCullough, SPS Technologies Inc., Newtown, Pennsylvania
1. Park, Stelco Co., Ontario, Canada
vi
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S T D = A S M E BL8.18.qH-ENGL 1987 0759b70
Ob17818 TA1
CONTENTS
Foreword ............................................................... iii

Standards Committee Roster ............................................... v
1 General Information .................................................. 1

2 Fasteners ............................................................ 1
Figures
1 Basic Plan Outline .................................................... 2
2 In-Process Sampling Frequency (Nondestructive) .......................... 6
Tables
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1 In-Process . Nondestructive ........................................... 3

2 In-Process . Destructive .............................................. 4
3 Frequency of Destructive Testing ....................................... 5
4 In-Process Testing Frequency ........................................... 5
5 -
Final Inspection Nondestructive ...................................... 7
6 Final Inspection - Destructive ......................................... 8
7 Final Inspection - Sample Size ......................................... 8
Appendices
I Tables A. B. and C ................................................... 11
II Ordering Information ................................................. 15
vii

ASMEiANSl BI 8.18.4" 1987
INSPECTION AND QUALITY ASSURANCE FOR FASTENERS FOR

HIGHLY SPECIALIZED ENGINEERED APPLICATIONS
1 GENERAL INFORMATION greatest range of lot size. Lot sizes are restricted to a
maximum of 250,000 pieces.
1 .I Basic Plan Structure
This Standard outlines a Quality Assurance Plan
for internally and externally threaded fasteners and 1.4 Measuring and Testing Equipment
accessories or associated parts.Provisionsarein- All measuringinstruments,gages,andtesting
cluded for samplingplans, inspection frequencies, equipment used to inspect incoming materials and
control procedures, and record keeping. The basic parts in process and in final inspection shall be cali-
structure of this plan outlines the quality assurance bratedatplanned intervals to National Bureau of
provisions for fasteners for special purpose applica- Standards (NBS) or other equivalent National Stan-
tions requiring in-process controls. Included are fas- dards where applicable. The dates of calibration and
tenersproduced by onemanufacturingpractice fixture checks shall be recorded. Inspection records
requiring records of in-process and final inspection shall be kept for a minimum of 1 year.
which are maintained by the producer.
This Standard will be used in conjunction with
other accepted standards for product,testing, gaging, 1.5 BasicPlanOutline
and material and, therefore, thoseprovisions as well
as packaging are not included herein. The basic plan outline as shown in Fig. 1 is included
to enhance understanding and use.
1.2 InspectionLevels
The substantial differencein importanceto the user
of various characteristics and the dissimilar degrees of
2 FASTENERS
control in manufacture make impractical the subject-
ing of all characteristics to thesame degree of inspec- 2.1 Scope
tion.Therefore,four inspection levels have been The plan in this Section is based on the concept of
provided.
quality assurancethrough in-process control. It estab-
Any additional characteristics deemed applicable
lishes specific inspection functions that must be-per-
by the user that do not appear in the plan shall be ex- formed during each process and at each operation
plicitly designated by the user, preferably on engineer- involving the production of fasteners, with the objec-
ing drawings and related specifications, by the
tive of producing finished fasteners that shall conform
appropriate code letter at thetime of ordering (see Ap-
to all customer requirements as specified in engineer-
pendix II). To assist in arriving at the most appropri-
ing drawings, related standards,and/or specifica-
ate inspection level, the Decision Table included in
tions.
Appendix I is recommended for guidance.
The general plan presents a uniform control proce-
dure that is intended to be applicable to all important
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characteristics used in the manufacture of fasteners.

1.3 LotSizes
Adherence to the characteristic requirements of this
When the acceptance number for sampling by at- plan does not release the contractorfrom the responsi-
tributes is fixed, variation in sample size results in var- bility of exercising due care in the production of all
iation of acceptable quality. Therefore, to avoid this parts to ensure that the requirements established for
inconsistency, fixed sample sizes are applied for the all characteristics shown on engineering drawings and
1

STD ASME

ASME/ANSI B18.18.4M-1987 HIGHLY SPECIALIZED ENGINEERED APPLICATIONS
related specifications have been met. This plan re-

quires that records of verification of material analysis,
in-process inspection, and testing, as well as final in- Fasteners for Highly Specialized
Engineered Applications
spection, all traceable to restricted size lots and ship-
Produced Consecutively From
ping destination, be maintained, a Single Mill Heat with ln-Process
Control and Lot Traceability
2.2 Applicable Characteristics

Raw Material Checks and
Applicable characteristics include all characteristics Records of Each Coil
of a part that are described by engineering drawings Produced From a
and related specifications (Tables5 and 6). Applicable Single Mill Heat
h
characteristics also include those transitional charac- 1
teristics of a part that arepresent in some intermediate Produced Consecutively
stage in the manufacture of the part (Tables 1 and 2). at the Initial
As-quenched hardnessis an exampleof a transitional Forming Operation
characteristic. Four levels of inspection - A, B, C,
and D- are provided in the plan. Each characteristic Fabrication - In-Process
has been assigned an appropriate level. Inspection Plan
Any additional characteristics deemed applicable
by the user and not appearing in the general plan, or
Heat Treatment - Where
characteristics for which the user requires a nonstan-
Applicable, ln-Process
dard inspection level, shall be designated by the user, Inspection Plan
preferably on drawings or specifications, by the ap- 1
propriate code letter at thetime of ordering. Refer to I

the Decision Table in Appendix I for guidance in es- Final Inspection
Verification Sample
tablishing these nonstandard levels.
i
Records Maintained for
2.3 LotDefinition a Minimum of 1 Year
Traceable by Lot Number
A lot is a quantity of product of one part number From Raw Material to
produced consecutively at the initial forming opera- Shipment Including Destination
tion from a single mill heat of material and subse-
quently submitted for final inspection at one time.
Maximum Lot Size - 250.000 Pieces
Maximum lot size traceable to final inspectionshall be
no larger than 250,000 pieces.
FIG. 1 BASIC PLANOUTLINE

2.4 LotIdentification
Each lot of material shall be identified by lot num-
ber. The lot numberused prior to submittal of the lot
2.5 Records
for finalinspectionshall be the supplier’s choice.
When a log passes final inspection,it shall beassigned The contractor shall maintain logs and records of
a six-digit lot number, The first two digits shall repre- inspection and tests as required by this plan. Such
sent the calendar monthof the year in which final in- records shall indicate the nature and number of obser-
spection is made. The middle two digits shall represent vations made, the number and type of deficiencies
the day of the month. The last twodigits shall repre- found, the quantities of material or parts approved
sent the order in which the lot was inspected in relation and rejected, and the natureof the corrective action
to other lots alsopassing final inspectionon the same taken. Recordsshall also includethe disposition of re-
day. Thus, 051893 would be the lot number assigned jected parts. All records shall be traceable fromthe fi-
to theninety-third lotpassing final inspectionon May nal lot number- from raw material through part for
18, regardless of part number. This final lot number shipment, including destination- and be maintained
shall appear on eachshipping container. for a minimum of 1 year from date of shipment.
2
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STDOASME B18.18-4M-ENGL L787 M 0 7 5 7 b 7 0 Ob27821 5 7 b M

HIGHLY SPECIALIZED ENGINEERED APPLICATIONS ASME/ANSI B18.18.4M-1987
TABLE 1 IN-PROCESS - NONDESTRUCTIVE
Internally Externally
Inspection Threaded Threaded
Characteristic Level Parts Parts
Forming Process
1 Shank diameter (body) C WA WA
2 Length B WA WA
3 Width across flats B WA WA
4 Width across corners C WA WA
5 Head or nut thickness C WA WA
6 Wrenching height C WA WA
7 Angularity of bearing surface C NA WA
8 Bearing surface diameter D WA WA
9 Head diameter C NA WA
10 Flange diameter C WA WA
11 Flange thickness C WA WA
12 Recess penetration B NA WA
13 Point diameter C NA WA
14 Countersink diameter and depth D WA NA
15 Grade and source D WA WA
16 Head and/or flange concentricity C WA WA
17 Flange flatness C WA WA
18 Radius under head D WA WA
19 Diameter of undercut B NA ‘NA
20 Depth of undercut D NA WA
21 Eccentricity of recess C NA WA
22 Concentricity of hole C WA NA
23 Visual inspection [Note I l ) I A WA WA
24 Thread acceptability [Note (2)l BICID WA WA
25 Total thread length B NA WA
26 Grip length B NA WA
27 Angularity p f tapping C WA NA
28 Visual inspection [Note ( 1 )I A WA WA
Slotting
29 Slot width C WA WA
30 Slot depth B WA WA
31 Slot alignments and location C WA WA
Prevailing Torque Feature
33 Width across flats C WA NA
34 Thread start A WA WA
35 Visual inspection [NoteIl )I A WA WA
Washer for Assemblies
36 Type of washers D WA WA
37 Washer O.D. D WA WA
38 Washer I.D. D WA WA
39 Washer thickness D WA WA
GENERAL NOTES:
(a) Legend: WA - when applicable
NA - not applicable
(bl Refer to para. 2 . 1 0 for acceptance criteria. Refer to Fig. 2 for frequency of testing.
NOTES:
( 1 ) Visual inspection for presence of plating, duds, surface discontinuities, head style, type of re-
cess, type of nut, typeof washer, presence of locking feature, finish, and general workmanship.
Those characteristics previously subjectedto inspection do not require reinspection.
(2)ANSUASME B1.3M or other applicable standards and at the appropriate inspection level (B, C,
or D).
3
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ASME/ANSI B I 8.18.4M-1987 HIGHLY SPECIALIZED ENGINEEREDAPPLICATIONS
TABLE 2 IN-PROCESS - DESTRUCTIVE
Description of Control
Internally Externally Heat

Inspection Threaded Threaded Treated
Characteristic Level Parts Parts Parts
1 Tensile strength
(wedge or axial) C NA WA WA
2 As-quenched hardness center [Note ( 1 i ] B WA WA WA
3 Hardness [Note (211 A WA WA WA
4 Case depth B NA WA WA
5 Decarburization C WA WA WA
6 Torsional strength B NA WA WA
7 Washer hardness B NA WA WA
C 8 Plating thickness WA WA WA
9 Corrosion resistance [Notes (31, (4)l C WA WA WA
10 Hydrogen
A embrittlement WA WA WA
GENERAL NOTE:
Legend: WA - when applicable
NA - not applicable
NOTES:
( 11 As-quenched hardness is checked following heating and quenching prior t o tempering.
(2) Surface, core, or both, as applicable.
(3) Continuous monitoring of salt spray performance in accordance with the recommendation of
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Table C in Appendix I constitutes compliance with requirements for salt spray testing outlined in
this table.
(4) Includes salt spray and other corrosion resisting tests.
2.6 Purchased Accessories and Parts tomer. The subcontractor shall send the inspection
records to the prime contractor with the parts that he
Accessories, services, and partially fabricated parts
(e.g.,washers,nuts,blanks,plating, heat treating, has processed and shall retain a copy for his records.
etc.) may be purchased by the prime contractor from
other suppliers foruse in the production of fasteners,
provided the following conditions and requirements 2.7 RawMaterial
are met.
2.7.1 General. Raw material (rod, wire, or bar)
(a) The prime contractor shall be completely re-
shall be inspected prior to release for fabrication to
sponsible to the user for the quality of the final prod-
verify that it conforms to the material requirements
uct *
specified. Raw material shall be inspected to deter-
(b) The prime contractor shall be responsible for
mine that each coil or bundle has amill identification
the implementation of all requirements of this plan,
and thateach heat (batch, cast, melt, etc.)is accompa-
including records. The primecontractor shall include
nied by a mill certification of analysis.
the requirementsof this plan in the purchase order to
the subcontractor. 2.7.2 Material Specifications. Each coilor bundle
(c) When the accessory, partially fabricated part, of material used to produce parts shall have its suit-
or treatment is processed by a subcontractor, the ability verified by chemical analysis or hardenability.
prime contractor shall so identify the subcontractor(s) With permission of the purchaser, a sample from one
of the partsand designate the process performed his in coil of steel from each mill heat shall be analyzed to
records. verify that it conforms to the material requirements
(d)A11 lots that areheat treated and/or finished by specified. All other coils shall be checked by spark
a subcontractor and all lots that are processed by a testing to ensure thatthey are from the same mill heat,
subcontractor following heat treatment and/or finish- using the sample from the analyzed coil as a reference
ing operations shall undergo inspection by the prime master. Cold drawn, stress relieved bars or coils, such
contractor. Final inspection maybe conducted by the as those used for U-bolts, shall also be checked for
subcontractor upon prior written approval of the cus- tensile strength to verify suitability.
4

S T D - A S M E B L B * L B * q M - E N G L L987 D
lNSPECTlON AND QUALITY ASSURANCE FOR FASTENERS FOR

HIGHLY SPECIALIZED ENGINEERED APPLICATIONS ASMElANSl B18.1 8.4M-1987
For bundles of material, chemical analysis or hard- TABLE 3 FREQUENCY OF DESTRUCTIVE

enability checks shall be performed at the following TESTING
frequency.
Inspection Continuous Equipment Batch
Number of Number of Bars Level 3 at Start of Run + Equipment
Bars/Bundle to Be Inspected
A 3 per hr 3 per batch
Up to 25 2
26 to 50 3 B 1 per hr 1 per batch
5 1 to 90 5 C 1 per 4 hr per lot 1 per batch
Over 90 8 D 1 per lot 1 per batch
In addition, all bars shall be checked by spark testing

or other nondestructive testing methodto ensure that
all bars are of the same composition. TABLE 4 IN-PROCESSTESTINGFREQUENCY
Level of Number of
Characteristics Checks
2,8 In-Process Inspection A 5
A minimum of five fasteners, takenat random from B 3
C 2
each coil of rod or wire or from each bundle of bars, D 1
shall be visually inspected to verify the general quality
of the raw material and its condition following the
forming process. The part shall be examined for evi-
dence of pipe, cracks, seams, and other surface dis- be sampled and then checked in accordance with Ta-
continuities according to applicable specifications. ble 4 for all designated characteristics affectedby the
At each machine or processing station the partshall new tool or by the setup adjustment.
be checked during production for designated charac- (d)During the production run, the part shall be
teristics imparted to it by that machine or processing checked for all designated characteristics impartedto
station. Sinceit is not essential that destructive tests be it by that machine or processing station in accordance
conducted at the time test samples are selected, the with Tables 1 and 2 at a frequency determined from
producer may elect to accumulate test samples taken Fig. 2 and Table 3.
in process for testing at one time. This provides uni- (e) At the completion of each production run, the
form sampling as intended by in-process inspection. last piece shall be completely checked for all charac-
teristics imparted to it by that machine or processing
2.8.1 Fabricating Operations. Table 1 lists most
station.
dimensionalcharacteristicsoffasteners covered in
this planwith designated inspectionlevels. General in- 2.8.2 ln-ProcessControls. The inspection level
spection procedures have been established on thebasis shall be in accordance with Tables 1 and 2 for nonde-
of engineering and manufacturingexperience with re- structive and destructive testing,respectively. The fre-
gard to the effect of setup, tooling, operator, and ma- quency of testing associatedwith each code letter may
chineoperationoneachcharacteristicateach be determined from the nomographof Fig. 2 and is a
processing station. function of production rate and size.lot Frequency of
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The minimum in-process requirements at each ma- destructive testing is contained in Table 3.
chine or processing station shall be as follows. When the frequency of sampling is less than one
(a) At the startof each production run, five pieces piece per hour, the time interval between sampling
of the part shall be sampled and then checked in ac- shall be evenly spaced throughout the shiftto the de-
cordance with Table 4 for all designated characteris- gree practicable.
tics imparted to it by that machine or processing Checks madeat the startof the shift or the produc-
station. tion run, orfollowing tool change or machine adjust-
(b) At the start of each new shift, five pieces of the ment, may contribute to the specified checks under
part shallbe sampled and thenchecked in accordance para. 2.8.1(d) within the following hour only.
with Table 4 for all designatedcharacteristics im- Visual examination of general workmanship shall
parted to it by that machine or processing station. include inspection for surface discontinuities, legibil-
(c) When a tool is changed or when an adjustment ity of identification markings, duds, and general ap-
in machine setup is made, five pieces of the part shall pearance.
5

ASMElANSl B18.18.4M-1987 HIGHLY SPECIALIZED ENGINEERED APPLICATIONS
100.000
9
8
7
7
6 60
5
50
4 40
o
3 r 30
Inspection Level
Lot sire a
of J
Characteristic 3- 20
2 --
-
1
250,000
200,000 ---
150,000 - L
r
100.000
10,000 80,000
9 60,000
L
8 50,000
r 7 '40.000
/
àï 30.000
a 6
!i
.-
o)
5
20,000
0 4
L
o)
10,000
2 3
-
L
C
5,000
a
U 2
e
n
1,000
--
- 1
1,000 """""" ""-
9. " 7
8 " 6
7 c
"5 c
6. r
u)
5 . m "4 i
3 m
4 o)
c"
"3 i
Y)
3 g! 8
.+
o)
"2 h
?I
2.
-
Min. ,
100.
GENERAL NOTE:
USE: Starting at left-hand axis of production rate, set rate of operation and from this point draw a
straight line through corresponding lot size to the reference line. From the reference point, draw a
straight line through point for required inspection level and extend to right-hand axis of sampling
frequency.
EXAMPLE: For production rate of 4,000 pcs/hr lot size 40,000 Level B, requiredsampling frequency =
3 pcslhr
FIG. 2 IN-PROCESS SAMPLING FREQUENCY (NONDESTRUCTIVE)
6
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HIGHLY SPECIALIZED ENGINEERED APPLICATIONS ASMEIANSI B1 8.18.4M-1987
TABLE 5 FINAL INSPECTION - NONDESTRUCTIVE

Characteristic Level Parts Parts
1 Body diameter C NA WA
2 Length B NA WA
3 Width across flats B WA WA
4 Wrench height, min. D WA NA
5 Nut thickness B WA NA
6 Head diameter B NA WA
7 Head style D NA WA
8 Angularity of bearing surface A WA WA
9 Flange diameter C WA WA
10 Thread acceptability [Note (111 BICID WA WA
11 Flange dimensions D WA WA
12 Presence of locking feature A WA WA
13 Visual inspection [Note (211 A WA WA
GENERAL NOTE:
NA - not applicable
NOTES:
(1I ANSUASME B1.3M or other applicable standards and at the appropriate inspection level {B,C,
or D).
(2) Visual inspection for grade and source identification, presence of finish, duds, surface disconti-
nuities, type of recess, type of washer, type of nut, finish, radius under head, thread chamfer,
cleanliness, lubrication, and general workmanship. Refer to Table 7 for sample size.
2.8.3 Heat Treatment they should be made and recorded are included in
(a) Process and Equipment. All heat treating pro- Table C in Appendix I .
cesses (includingstressrelief) andheattreatment (b) Inspection of Finished Fasteners. Plating thick-
equipmentshall be regularly monitored to ensure ness and/or coating weight, hydrogen embrittlement,
process control and proper functioning of equipment. and corrosion resistanceof plated or coated fasteners
The furnace and processing control checks and the shall be checked andrecorded in accordance with
minimum frequencywith which they should be made Tables 2, 5 , and 6 .
and recorded are included in Table B in Appendix I.
(b) Inspection of Heat Treated Fasteners. Heat
treatedfasteners are fasteners that have been sub- 2.9 FinalInspection
jected to oneor more heat treatment operations. Heat
Each lotof fasteners shallbe subject to final inspec-
treated fastenersshall be inspected after all intermedi-
tion. The final inspection is intended to verify that the
ate andfinal heat treatment stages. The characteristics
lot consists of the ordered parts, to check for mixed
of the various types of fasteners and the minimum
stock, and toreinspect certain functionally important
frequency of their inspection are detailed in Tables 2
characteristics that may have been altered during heat
and 3.
treatment and/or finishing operations. Final inspec-
(c) Records. Records shall be maintained in ac-
tion shall also include examinationof any applicable
cordance with para. 2.5.
characteristics not inspected in process. Final inspec-
2.8.4 Finishing Operations tion records shall be maintained in accordance with
(a) Processing and Equipment. All plating, coat- para. 2.5.
ing,andpostlubrication processes andequipment Thenondestructive inspection requirementsare
shall be regularly monitored to ensureprocess control given in Table 5 . The destructive test requirementsare
and proper functioning of equipment.Suggested given in Table 6 . Sample sizes are then determined
process control checks and the frequency with which from Table 7.
7

ASME/ANSI B1 8.18.4M-1987 HIGHLY SPECIALIZED ENGINEERED APPLICATIONS
TABLE 6 FINALINSPECTION - DESTRUCTIVE

--`,,```,,,,````-`-`,,`,,`,`,,`---

Parts Level Characteristic Parts
1 Proof load - externally threaded D NA WA

2 Proof load - internally threaded NA B WA
3 Tensile strength(wedge or axial) WA C NA
4 Hardness [Note ( 1 ) I WA B WA
5 Washer hardness B WA NA
6 Drive test B NA WA
7 WAPrevailing torque[NoteWA(2)l A
8 WADuctility WA B
9 Plating thickness WA B WA
1O Salt sprayWA WA B
GENERAL NOTE:
NA - not applicable
NOTES:
( 1 1 Surface, core, or both, as appropriate.
(2) Prevailing torque test includes thread start, all specified torque requirements, and retention of
locking feature, when applicable. Refer to Table 7 for sample size.
TABLE 7 FINALINSPECTION - SAMPLESIZE 2.10.2Acceptance Criterion.The acceptance cri-

terion for final inspection is zero discrepancies for
Inspection Nondestructive Tests Destructive nondestructive and destructive tests.
Level [Note II11 Tests
2.10.3Customer Inspection. I f on receipt of the
A 25 material the user discovers a single nonconforming
B 9
C 3 part that would function defectively,he may reject the
D 1 lot. The manufacturer will be notified.
GENERAL NOTE:
Quench cracking observed in a single piece renders the lot sub-
ject to rejection.
NOTE: 2.1 1 Disposition of Nonconforming Materials or

( 1 ) When sample size exceeds lot size, 100% inspection is t o Parts
be applied.
Records of disposition shall be maintained in ac-
cordance with para. 2.5.
2.1O Acceptance and Rejection
2.11 .l Manufacturer's Options. The manufac-
2.1 0.1 Basis of Rejection. Any coil of rod or wire turer has thechoice of the following options in the dis-
or bundle-of bars failingto meet the requirementsof positionofthosepartsthathave been found to
para. 2.7-shall be held for disposition. contain discrepancies within his plant.
If any.parts are found tobe nonconforming during (a) They may be scrapped.
any in-processinspection at any fabricating, heat (b) They maybe 100% sorted and all nonconform-
treatment,(or finishing operation, all parts produced ing parts removed.
since the last inspectionof the characteristic@) found (c) They may be used for another application.
;nonconforming shall be removed from further pro- (d)They may be reworked or reprocessed to correct
cessing anil held for disposition. the nonconforming characteristic(s).
8 '

HIGHLY SPECIALIZED ENGINEERED APPLICATIONS ASME/ANSI B18.18.4M-1987
(e) The customer maybe informed of the rejectable quirements will have no significant effect on the per-
items and his advice requested on their disposition.If formance of the parts in their service application, the
the customer considers that the degree to which the customer may authorize release of theparts ormateri-
characteristic(s) deviates from specified requirements als for use and advise the manufacturer.
will have no significant effect on the performance of (e) They all may be returned.
the parts in their service application, the customer
may authorize releaseof the parts or materials for
completion of production or forshipment as applica- 2.12 Reinspection
ble.
All piecesthat have been sorted and/or reworked in
2.1 1.2 Customer's Options. The customer shall accordance with para. 2.11.1 or para. 2.11.2 shall be
establish agreement with the manufacturer on oneof resubmitted for lot sampling and inspection of the
the following options for thedisposition of those ma- characteristic@,) found nonconforming and all other
terials or parts that have been found rejectable after characteristics that would be affected by the repair or
receipt from the manufacturer. reprocessing operation(s) at an inspection level four
(a) They may be scrapped. times the size of the original final acceptance sample.
(b) They may be 100% sorted and all defective If no parts in the sampleinspected are founddefec-
parts removed. tive, the material may reenter the production flow or
(c) They maybe reworked or reprocessed to correct may be approved for delivery or use, as applicable. A
--`,,```,,,,````-`-`,,`,,`,`,,`---
the nonconforming characteristic(s). new lot number shall be assigned in accordance with
(d)If the customerconsiders that the degree to para. 2.4 for the new suitable material, which is trace-
which the characteristic(s) deviates from specified re- able to the original lot number.

APPENDIX I
TABLE A INSPECTION LEVEL DECISION TABLE
(This Appendix is not part ofASME/ANSI B18.18.4M-1987, and is included

here for information purposes only.)
Is characteristic classified as
maior or minor? ( A major characterisric
materially affects the useability
o f the product for its intended
purpose; a minor characteristic
does not.)
--`,,```,,,,````-`-`,,`,,`,`,,`---
Is characteristic set by tooling
or material (not subject to rapid
change during production)?
Ir characteristuc
measured
in process? e
Inspection Levels 1
t 1
11

Provided by IHS under license with ASME Previous page is blank.
,,`,`,,`---
TABLE B SUGGESTED EQUIPMENT AND PROCESSING CONTROL CHECKS
Control Check
a” . ;
.f : .B E $
aa k&l 8 2
e 2 QC c z
a, s .E 1
iE .; $ e ii
ui 2 .d g $ tiig s 2
6crJ $ 5-I L
is;’ 2 0
0) % ET
$! .;; I 6m
a &E g ”g .fQ 1;;: 2 G I gs
E:s 12 ;{a zj @D
EE ;a 2; & 2 1
is-, ‘I 5: 512 F g yP om
jE ‘: ri6 20 g; 83 02 1 c
3:
a”. 1 aae :g .e EB sa 3-
*rn
@E-cr aE 6: +Qg 45
68$? 66 51-“5 4; 6c” 53
Heat Treatment
Process 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16
1 Hardening furnace Each 4 hr Each Daily Monthly [Note FSTDC 6 months FSTDC NA NA Each NA Each Start FSTDC
atmosphere lot [Note (1 )I lot WI max. and refer lot lot of
quench - as req’d to each
continuous COI. 2 shift
2 Hardening furnace Each Each Each Daily Monthly [Note FSTDC 6 months FSTDC NA NA NA NA Each Each FSTDC
atmosphere batch batch or batch (211 max. and refer refer batch batch
quench - 4 hr as req’d to to
batch type INote (1 )I COI. 2 COI. 1
3 Carburiring furnace Each 4 hr Each Daily Monthly [Note FSTDC 6 months FSTDC NA NA Each NA Each Start FSTDC
quench - lot INote t 1 )I lot (2)1 max. and refer lot lot of
continuous as req’d to each
COI. 2 shift
4 Carburizing furnace Each Each Each Daily Monthly [Note FSTDC 6 months FSTDC NA NA NA NA Each Each FSTDC
quench - batch batch or batch (2)1 max. and refer refer batch batch
batch type 4 hr as req’d to to
[Note (1 II col. 2 COI. 1
5 Carbonitriding Each 4 hr Each Daily Monthly [Note FSTDC 6 months FSTDC NA NA Each NA Each Start FSTDC
furnace quench - lot [Note f I)] lot (2)l max. and refer lot lot of
continuous as req’d to each
col. 2 shift
6 Carbonitriding Each Each Each Daily Monthly [Note FSTDC 6 months FSTDC NA NA NA NA Each Each FSTDC
furnace quench - batch batch or batch (211 max. and refer refer batch batch
batch type 4 hr as req’d to to
[Note (111 COI. 2 col. 1
7 Annealing furnace Each 4 hr Each Daily Monthly [Note FSTDC 6 months NA 4 hr FSTDC Each NA NA NA FSTD(
atmosphere - lot [Note (1 )I lot (111 max. and lot
continuous as req’d

TABLE B SUGGESTED EQUIPMENT AND PROCESSING CONTROL CHECKS (CONT’DI
T Control Check
Heat Treatment
Process 1 6 8 16
8 Annealing furnace Iach Each Iach Daily Zali- iach FSTDC STDC NA NA NA Iach NA NA NA
atmosphere - :harge charge :harge brat. un- :harge :harge
batch type W leces- con- v
:yle arv; rolled :ycle
hange my dew
lnly roint)
s req’d
w
9 Tempering and iach UA JA Daily Monthly NA rlA NA NA NA lonthly iach NA NA NA
stress relieving ot or ot or
furnaces latch latch
IO Endothermic gas start t hr JA Daily vlonthly NA IIA NA Dailv FSTDC IA JA NA NA NA

generator ,f each
;hift
I 1 Nitrogen JA STDC JA VA NA JA NA B hr FSTDC IA JA NA NA NA

generators
12 Ammonia itart STDC I hr Daily NA 1A NA NA FSTDC IA JA NA NA NA

dissociators If each
,hift ~
GENERAL NOTE:
Legend: NA - not applicable
FSTDC - frequency sufficient to demonstrate control
NOTES:
(1 I This check may be omitted if furnace is under automatic atmosphere control; however, a daily calibration chack of atmosphere in-
strument should be made and logged.
(2) When process gas in a furnace is changed (for example, carburizing to hardening), the correct furnace atmosphere required for the
new process should be fully developed within the furnace as established by CO, or dew point analysis before the new production
parts can be started in the furnace. When changing over a furnace atmosphere from one utilizing ammonia to one in which no am-
monia is to be used, the ammonia supply line should be physically disconnected from the furnace (to avoid any possibility of shut-
--`,,```,,,,````-`-`,,`,,`,`,,`---
off valve leakage).

a
z
Q
c c
W m
c
W
c
W
c
o = o= o = O = O = a
zz zz zz z-
" zc! z
-
-
.->
a a a a m
z S S z z z n
r
a<+ a
3 Q S z ò
c
m 9
V u
n n
I-
:: i
-
.-r
m a a
n z 2
u V u u
n n n n
I- I- I- I-
:: v)
U F ::
a a a
z z z
I
-
u)
.--
r >a-
a 54 a a -
d z W N z z
-
2
c
S
o
a a
9 9 z 2
o
c
F
c
m
C
P 1 1 P X
z
O
E
V
O
a a
z
z
-
.->
S
a
I z
P.-
W
u)
O
a
m
U
& g o
P c .E
n v c
r m 4 n
14
--`,,```,,,,````-`-`,,`,,`,`,,`---

APPENDIX II
ORDERING INFORMATION
--`,,```,,,,````-`-`,,`,,`,`,,`---
(This Appendix is not partof ASMElANSl B18.18.4M-1987, and is included
here for information purposes only.)
Specifications
(u) Number and title of document
(b) Exceptions
Example
( u ) ASME/ANSI B18.18.4M, Inspectionand
Quality Assurance for Fasteners for Highly Special-
ized Engineered Applications.
( b ) Threadacceptabilityshall be based on the
thread aqeptability paragraphin A N W A S M E
B1.3M with an A inspection level.
1s

AMERICAN NATIONAL STANDARDS FOR BOLTS, NUTS, RIVETS, SCREWS,
WASHERS, AND SIMILAR FASTENERS
--`,,```,,,,````-`-`,,`,,`,`,,`---

M00 128

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A NA M E R I C A NN A T I O N A LS T A N D A R D

Inspection and Quality

FOR CURRENT COMMlnEE PERSONNEL

Copyright ASME International

No partof this document may be reproduced in any form,

Copyright ASME International

(This Foreword is not part of ASME/ANSI B1 8.18.4M-1987.)

Copyright ASME International

AMERICAN SOCIETY OF AGRICULTURAL ENGINEERS

AMERICAN SOCIETY OF MECHANICAL ENGINEERS

ENGINE MANUFACTURERS ASSOCIATION

FARM & INDUSTRIAL EQUIPMENT INSTITUTE

HAND TOOL INSTITUTE

INDUSTRIAL FASTENERS INSTITUTE

METAL CUTTING TOOL INSTITUTE

NATIONAL ELECTRICAL MANUFACTURERS ASSOCIATION

NATIONAL FASTENERS DISTRIBUTORS ASSOCIATION

Copyright ASME International

TUBULAR & MACHINE INSTITUTE

U. S. DEPARTMENT OF THE ARMY

U. S. DEPARTMENT OF THE NAVY

PERSONNEL OF SUBCOMMITTEE 18 - INSPECTION AND QUALITY CONTROL

Copyright ASME International

Foreword ............................................................... iii

1 General Information .................................................. 1

1 In-Process . Nondestructive ........................................... 3

Copyright ASME International

INSPECTION AND QUALITY ASSURANCE FOR FASTENERS FOR

characteristics used in the manufacture of fasteners.

Copyright ASME International

INSPECTION AND QUALITY ASSURANCE FOR FASTENERS FOR

related specifications have been met. This plan re-

2.2 Applicable Characteristics

propriate code letter at thetime of ordering. Refer to I

FIG. 1 BASIC PLANOUTLINE

Copyright ASME International

INSPECTION AND QUALITY ASSURANCE FOR FASTENERS FOR

TABLE 1 IN-PROCESS - NONDESTRUCTIVE

Copyright ASME International

TABLE 2 IN-PROCESS - DESTRUCTIVE

Internally Externally Heat

Copyright ASME International

lNSPECTlON AND QUALITY ASSURANCE FOR FASTENERS FOR

For bundles of material, chemical analysis or hard- TABLE 3 FREQUENCY OF DESTRUCTIVE

In addition, all bars shall be checked by spark testing

Copyright ASME International

FIG. 2 IN-PROCESS SAMPLING FREQUENCY (NONDESTRUCTIVE)

Copyright ASME International

TABLE 5 FINAL INSPECTION - NONDESTRUCTIVE

Copyright ASME International

TABLE 6 FINALINSPECTION - DESTRUCTIVE

Inspection Threaded Threaded

1 Proof load - externally threaded D NA WA

TABLE 7 FINALINSPECTION - SAMPLESIZE 2.10.2Acceptance Criterion.The acceptance cri-

NOTE: 2.1 1 Disposition of Nonconforming Materials or

Copyright ASME International

Copyright ASME International

(This Appendix is not part ofASME/ANSI B18.18.4M-1987, and is included

Copyright ASME International

Copyright ASME International

IO Endothermic gas start t hr JA Daily vlonthly NA IIA NA Dailv FSTDC IA JA NA NA NA

I 1 Nitrogen JA STDC JA VA NA JA NA B hr FSTDC IA JA NA NA NA

12 Ammonia itart STDC I hr Daily NA 1A NA NA FSTDC IA JA NA NA NA