The M18 size of Hex Nuts is dimensioned by ISO 4032 / ISO 4033. The table below gives the dimensional row from the standard, followed by the drive and the installation notes for this type.
M18 Dimensional Row (ISO 4032 / ISO 4033)
| Size | Pitch (mm) | Width across flats s (mm) | Width across corners e min (mm) | Nut height m style 1 (mm) | Nut height m style 2 (mm) | Reference standard |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| M18 | 2.5 | 27.0 | 29.56 | 15.0 | 18.0 | ISO 4032 (Style1) / ISO 4033 (Style2) |
Spanner & Drive for M18 Hex Nuts
M18 Hex Nuts have a width across flats of 27.0 mm — fit a 27.0 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 M18
| Class 8.8 (dry, ~µ 0.125) | ≈ 290 Nm |
|---|---|
| Class 10.9 (dry, ~µ 0.125) | ≈ 405 Nm |
| Class 12.9 (dry, ~µ 0.125) | ≈ 485 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 M18
| Tensile stress area As (ISO 898-1) | 192 mm² |
|---|---|
| Proof load, class 8.8 | 115 kN |
| Proof load, class 10.9 | 159 kN |
| Proof load, class 12.9 | 186 kN |
| Min. ultimate tensile, class 8.8 | 154 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 M18 Hex Nuts
M18 Hex Nuts are commonly specified for structural joints, flange connections and heavy equipment foundations.
Installation Tips for M18 Hex Nuts
- 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.
- At M18 the stretch in the bolt becomes the controlling factor — for critical joints, use angle-controlled or stretch-controlled tightening instead of pure torque.
Mating Parts for M18
Pair M18 with the matching M18 bolt or screw, plus a M18 flat washer where required to distribute load on softer materials.
