Dimensional and assembly data for M18 Socket Head Cap Screws to ISO 4762 / DIN 912. Includes head size and width across flats, clearance-hole and tapping-drill diameters, tightening torque per property class, and the sizes to step up or down to when the joint requires it.
M18 Dimensional Row (ISO 4762 / DIN 912)
| Size | Pitch (mm) | Head diameter dk (mm) | Head height k (mm) | Hex key s (mm) | Socket depth t min (mm) | Reference standard |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| M18 | 2.5 | 27.0 | 18.0 | 14.0 | 9.0 | ISO 4762 / DIN 912 |
Spanner & Drive for M18 Socket Head Cap Screws
The hex socket for M18 Socket Head Cap Screws is shown in the spec table — use the matching Allen / hex key (an ISO 2936 hex key set covers the full range). Ball-end keys are for reaching the screw, not for tightening it — finish on the plain end, and on production work use a torque-controlled driver.
Hole Sizes for M18
| Coarse-thread pitch (ISO 724) | 2.5 mm |
|---|---|
| Through-hole / clearance (ISO 273 medium) | 20 mm |
| Tapping drill, coarse thread | 15.5 mm |
Tightening Torque for M18
| Class 8.8 (dry, ~µ 0.125) | ≈ 297 Nm |
|---|---|
| Class 10.9 (dry, ~µ 0.125) | ≈ 423 Nm |
| Class 12.9 (dry, ~µ 0.125) | ≈ 495 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 724) | 192 mm² |
|---|---|
| Proof load, class 8.8 | 115 kN |
| Proof load, class 10.9 | 160 kN |
| Proof load, class 12.9 | 187 kN |
| Min. ultimate tensile load, class 8.8 | 160 kN |
Proof load = tensile stress area × the proof stress Sp of the class, per ISO 898-1 — Sp is a lower figure than the yield stress Rp0.2 and the two are not interchangeable. The stress area is computed from this size's own diameter and pitch, so a fine-pitch designation gives the fine-pitch figure. Design the joint so the working preload stays below the proof load of the class selected.
Installation Tips for M18 Socket Head Cap Screws
- Use a quality Allen key fully seated in the socket — partial engagement is the most common cause of stripped sockets at this size.
- For countersunk and button-head variants, chamfer the through-hole to seat the head flush without preloading the head/shank fillet.
- 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
For M18, pair with a M18 hex nut (ISO 4032 / DIN 934) and, where used, a M18 flat washer (ISO 7089 / DIN 125A) under the head and under the nut.
Custom manufacturing · Made to drawing
Need socket head cap screws in a size this table does not list?
This page covers M18 socket head cap screws. Head form and drive can be specified to the assembly rather than to a standard: a larger bearing face, a security drive, or a socket sized for the tool already on the bench. Made by cold heading or warm forging.
Minimum order from 2,000 pieces; samples within 7 days of drawing approval.
