The M12 size of Hex Nut is dimensioned by GB/T 6170 / ISO 4032. The table below gives the dimensional row from the standard, followed by the drive and the installation notes for this type.
M12 Dimensional Row (GB/T 6170 / ISO 4032)
| Size | Pitch (mm) | Width across flats s (mm) | Width across corners e (mm) | Nut height m (mm) | Reference standard |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| M12 | 1.75 | 18.0 | 20.03 | 10.8 | ISO 4032 / GB/T 6170 |
Spanner & Drive for M12 Hex Nut — GB/T 6170 / ISO 4032 (Series 059)
M12 Hex Nut — GB/T 6170 / ISO 4032 (Series 059) have a width across flats of 18.0 mm — fit a 18.0 mm open-ended spanner or socket. Use a 6-point socket for tight clearances and to reduce rounding; for repeated assembly choose a torque wrench so the joint preload is repeatable.
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 Hex Nut — GB/T 6170 / ISO 4032 (Series 059)
M12 Hex Nut — GB/T 6170 / ISO 4032 (Series 059) are commonly specified for medium-duty structural joints and motor / chassis mounting.
Installation Tips for M12 Hex Nut — GB/T 6170 / ISO 4032 (Series 059)
- Use a 6-point socket where access allows — 12-point sockets are more prone to rounding the corners on smaller sizes.
- On flanged or serrated variants, do NOT add a separate flat washer — the flange already spreads the load and the washer can defeat the locking serrations.
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.


