M3 Hex Socket Cone Point Set Screw (GB/T 77 / ISO 4026) are specified by thread size, length and head dimensions. The M3 row from the standard is reproduced below, followed by the drill sizes, spanner size and torque values used when installing this size.
M3 Dimensional Row (GB/T 77 / ISO 4026)
| Size | Pitch (mm) | Length L (mm) | Hex socket s (mm) | Engagement depth t min (mm) | Point diameter dp (mm) | Reference standard |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| M3 | 0.5 | 6 | 1.5 | 1.4 | 2.0 | ISO 4026-4029 / GB/T 77-79 |
Spanner & Drive for M3 Hex Socket Cone Point Set Screw — GB/T 77 / ISO 4026 (Series 022)
The hex socket for M3 Hex Socket Cone Point Set Screw — GB/T 77 / ISO 4026 (Series 022) is shown in the spec table — use the matching Allen / hex key (an ISO 2936 hex key set covers the full range). A T-handle Allen key gives the best feel for setting preload by feel; for production work use a torque-controlled driver.
Hole Sizes for M3
| Coarse-thread pitch (ISO 724) | 0.5 mm |
|---|---|
| Through-hole / clearance (ISO 273 medium) | 3.4 mm |
| Tapping drill, coarse thread | 2.5 mm |
Tightening Torque for M3
| Class 8.8 (dry, ~µ 0.125) | ≈ 1.3 Nm |
|---|---|
| Class 10.9 (dry, ~µ 0.125) | ≈ 1.8 Nm |
| Class 12.9 (dry, ~µ 0.125) | ≈ 2.1 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 M3
| Tensile stress area As (ISO 898-1) | 5.03 mm² |
|---|---|
| Proof load, class 8.8 | 2.9 kN |
| Proof load, class 10.9 | 4.2 kN |
| Proof load, class 12.9 | 4.9 kN |
| Min. ultimate tensile, class 8.8 | 4 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.
M3 Hex Socket Cone Point Set Screw — GB/T 77 / ISO 4026 (Series 022) Weight
A steel M3 hex socket cone point set screw at the listed 6 mm length weighs approximately 0.1 g each — about 0.1 kg per 1,000 pieces. Stainless A2/A4 weighs roughly the same (density 7.9–8.0 g/cm³). Actual weight varies slightly with head form, thread and finish; use this figure for freight estimation only.
Common Applications for M3 Hex Socket Cone Point Set Screw — GB/T 77 / ISO 4026 (Series 022)
M3 Hex Socket Cone Point Set Screw — GB/T 77 / ISO 4026 (Series 022) are commonly specified for electronics, PCB hardware, optical mounts and small-scale machinery.
Mating Parts for M3
For M3, pair with a M3 hex nut (ISO 4032 / DIN 934) and, where used, a M3 flat washer (ISO 7089 / DIN 125A) under the head and under the nut.
When to Step Up or Down from M3
When the joint preload approaches the proof load of M3 class 8.8, step up to M4 class 8.8 (or move to M3 class 10.9). When the joint is over-specified, M2 often saves weight and cost without losing the safety margin.