M20 is one of the standard coarse-thread sizes for hex bolts under ISO 4014 / ISO 4017. The sections below reproduce the dimensional row, list the matching tools and hole sizes, and summarize where this size is normally specified.
M20 Dimensional Row (ISO 4014 / ISO 4017)
| Size | Pitch coarse (mm) | Width across flats s (mm) | Width across corners e min (mm) | Head height k nom (mm) | Nominal diameter d (mm) | Reference standard | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| M20 | 2.5 | 30.0 | 33.53 | 12.5 | 20.0 | ISO 4014/4017 | Partial / fully threaded |
Spanner & Drive for M20 Hex Bolts
M20 Hex Bolts have a width across flats of 30.0 mm — fit a 30.0 mm open-ended spanner or socket. Prefer a 6-point socket over a 12-point: it loads the corners of the 30.0 mm hex far less, which matters on plated heads and on anything that will be re-used. Set preload with a torque wrench rather than by arm.
Hole Sizes for M20
| Coarse-thread pitch (ISO 724) | 2.5 mm |
|---|---|
| Through-hole / clearance (ISO 273 medium) | 22 mm |
| Tapping drill, coarse thread | 17.5 mm |
Tightening Torque for M20
| Class 8.8 (dry, ~µ 0.125) | ≈ 420 Nm |
|---|---|
| Class 10.9 (dry, ~µ 0.125) | ≈ 598 Nm |
| Class 12.9 (dry, ~µ 0.125) | ≈ 700 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 M20
| Tensile stress area As (ISO 724) | 245 mm² |
|---|---|
| Proof load, class 8.8 | 147 kN |
| Proof load, class 10.9 | 203 kN |
| Proof load, class 12.9 | 237 kN |
| Min. ultimate tensile load, class 8.8 | 203 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 M20 Hex Bolts
- Use a 6-point socket where access allows — 12-point sockets are more prone to rounding the corners on smaller sizes.
- A flanged head is its own washer. Adding a flat one under it lifts the serrations clear of the surface they are meant to bite, which is the whole locking mechanism gone.
- At M20 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 M20
For M20, pair with a M20 hex nut (ISO 4032 / DIN 934) and, where used, a M20 flat washer (ISO 7089 / DIN 125A) under the head and under the nut.
Custom manufacturing · Made to drawing
Need hex bolts in a size this table does not list?
This page covers M20 hex bolts. Lengths and thread lengths outside the standard table are the commonest request, followed by a drive the standard does not offer and a head marked with your own part number. Made by cold heading or hot forging.
Minimum order from 2,000 pieces; samples within 7 days of drawing approval.
