M12 Button Head Socket Screws are manufactured to ISO 7380 with a coarse thread pitch of 1.75 mm. This page lists the controlling dimensions for the M12 size — head geometry, width across flats, matching spanner size — together with the clearance hole, tapping drill and tightening torque used at assembly.
M12 Dimensional Row (ISO 7380)
| Size | Pitch (mm) | Head diameter dk (mm) | Head height k (mm) | Hex socket s (mm) | Reference standard |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| M12 | 1.75 | 21.0 | 6.6 | 8.0 | ISO 7380-1 / DIN 7380 |
Spanner & Drive for M12 Button Head Socket Screws
The hex socket for M12 Button Head Socket Screws is shown in the spec table — use the matching Allen / hex key (an ISO 2936 hex key set covers the full range). A T-handle Allen key gives the best feel for setting preload by feel; for production work use a torque-controlled driver.
Hole Sizes for M12
| Coarse-thread pitch (ISO 724) | 1.75 mm |
|---|---|
| Through-hole / clearance (ISO 273 medium) | 13.5 mm |
| Tapping drill, coarse thread | 10.2 mm |
Tightening Torque for M12
| Class 8.8 (dry, ~µ 0.125) | ≈ 85 Nm |
|---|---|
| Class 10.9 (dry, ~µ 0.125) | ≈ 120 Nm |
| Class 12.9 (dry, ~µ 0.125) | ≈ 145 Nm |
Indicative dry-joint values. Lubrication can lower the required torque by 15–25%. Always confirm against the joint design, especially when going up a strength class.
Proof Load & Strength for M12
| Tensile stress area As (ISO 898-1) | 84.3 mm² |
|---|---|
| Proof load, class 8.8 | 49 kN |
| Proof load, class 10.9 | 70 kN |
| Proof load, class 12.9 | 82 kN |
| Min. ultimate tensile, class 8.8 | 67 kN |
Proof load = stress area × proof stress per ISO 898-1. Design joints so the working preload stays below the proof load of the selected class.
Common Applications for M12 Button Head Socket Screws
M12 Button Head Socket Screws are commonly specified for heavier machine assembly and equipment mounting.
Mating Parts for M12
For M12, pair with a M12 hex nut (ISO 4032 / DIN 934) and, where used, a M12 flat washer (ISO 7089 / DIN 125A) under the head and under the nut.
When to Step Up or Down from M12
When the joint preload approaches the proof load of M12 class 8.8, step up to M16 class 8.8 (or move to M12 class 10.9). When the joint is over-specified, M10 often saves weight and cost without losing the safety margin.