The M20 size of Hex Bolts is dimensioned by ISO 4014 / ISO 4017. The tables below give the dimensional row from the standard, the drill and spanner sizes that go with it, and the assembly torque per property class. The technical drawing on this page redraws to the exact values selected.
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. 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.
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) | ≈ 410 Nm |
|---|---|
| Class 10.9 (dry, ~µ 0.125) | ≈ 580 Nm |
| Class 12.9 (dry, ~µ 0.125) | ≈ 690 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 898-1) | 245 mm² |
|---|---|
| Proof load, class 8.8 | 147 kN |
| Proof load, class 10.9 | 203 kN |
| Proof load, class 12.9 | 238 kN |
| Min. ultimate tensile, class 8.8 | 196 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 M20 Hex Bolts
M20 Hex Bolts are commonly specified for structural steelwork, heavy machinery foundations and large flange joints.
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.
- 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 M20 the stretch in the bolt becomes the controlling factor — for critical joints, use angle-controlled or stretch-controlled tightening instead of pure torque.
When to Step Up or Down from M20
When the joint preload approaches the proof load of M20 class 8.8, step up to M24 class 8.8 (or move to M20 class 10.9). When the joint is over-specified, M16 often saves weight and cost without losing the safety margin.