This page covers M3 Low Head Socket Cap Screws to DIN 7984: the full dimensional row, hole and tool sizes, proof-load data and typical applications. All values are taken from the governing standards (DIN 7984 together with ISO 273, ISO 724 and ISO 898-1 where applicable).
M3 Dimensional Row (DIN 7984)
| Size | Pitch P (mm) | b (mm) | Head diameter dk (mm) | da (mm) | ds_min (mm) | e (mm) | Head height k (mm) | r (mm) | Hex socket s (mm) | t (mm) | v (mm) | dw (mm) | Length range l (mm) | Reference standard |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| M3 | 0.5 | 12 | 5.5 | 3.6 | 2.86 | 2.3 | 2.0 | 0.1 | 2.0 | 1.5 | 0.3 | 4.84 | 5~20 | DIN 7984 |
Spanner & Drive for M3 Low Head Socket Cap Screws
The hex socket for M3 Low Head Socket Cap Screws 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 key gives the most feel when you are judging preload by hand; anything repeated across a batch wants a torque-controlled driver instead.
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) | ≈ Nm |
| Class 12.9 (dry, ~µ 0.125) | ≈ 2.2 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
This is a reduced-height head. The head, not the thread, limits what the screw will carry — ISO 7380-1 caps a button head at roughly 80% of the thread's capacity — so the thread's proof load overstates the assembly. Size the joint on the head, or use a cap screw where the full class strength is needed.
M3 Low Head Socket Cap Screws Weight
A steel M3 low head socket cap screws at the listed 520 mm length weighs approximately 97 g each — about 97 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.
Installation Tips for M3 Low Head Socket 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 M3 the joint is sensitive to over-torque — use a torque-limiting driver and check the head doesn't bury into a softer counterpart.
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.
Custom manufacturing · Made to drawing
Need low head socket cap screws in a size this table does not list?
This page covers M3 low head socket cap screws. 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 warm forging.
Minimum order from 2,000 pieces; samples within 7 days of drawing approval.
