Patriot Bolt machines ASTM A354 Grade BD and Grade BC stud bolts from certified alloy steel bar, quenched and tempered to the specification. A354 covers bolts, studs and threaded rod up to 4 in diameter in two strength levels, with no restriction on configuration.
BD is the higher-strength grade, with 150 ksi minimum tensile through 2-1/2 in. BC sits below it at 125 ksi. We make A354 studs to your purchase order or drawing, and every order ships with mill test reports traceable to the heat.
A354 BD / BC Stud Bolts at a Glance
- Specification
- ASTM A354 Grade BD or BC
- Material
- Alloy steel, quenched and tempered
- Strength, BD
- 150 ksi min tensile, 130 ksi min yield (2-1/2 in and under)
- Strength, BC
- 125 ksi min tensile, 109 ksi min yield (2-1/2 in and under)
- Size range
- 4 in and under
- Matching nut
- A563 DH heavy hex or A194 2H
Why Engineers Specify A354 BD and BC Studs
- High strength in any shape. A354 is not limited to a head style, so it covers studs, threaded rod and anchor rods.
- Beyond structural bolt sizes. Structural bolts to ASTM F3125 stop at 1-1/2 in. A354 runs to 4 in, so BD is used where similar strength is needed in larger studs and rods.
- Two strength levels. BD for the highest load, BC where 125 ksi is enough.
- Heat treated through the section. Quenching and tempering give consistent properties across the diameter range.
A354 is intended for normal atmospheric temperatures. For high-temperature pressure joints, A193 grades such as B7 apply.
A354 Stud Bolt Specifications
ASTM A354 sets properties by grade and diameter.
| Grade and diameter | Tensile, min | Yield (0.2%), min | Elongation, min | Reduction of area, min | Hardness |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| BC, 2-1/2 in and under | 125 ksi | 109 ksi | 16% | 50% | 26–36 HRC |
| BC, over 2-1/2 to 4 in | 115 ksi | 99 ksi | 16% | 45% | 22–33 HRC |
| BD, 2-1/2 in and under | 150 ksi | 130 ksi | 14% | 40% | 33–39 HRC |
| BD, over 2-1/2 to 4 in | 140 ksi | 115 ksi | 14% | 40% | 31–39 HRC |
Check the hardness and proof load values on your purchase order against the current edition of the specification.
A354 Chemical Composition
| Element | BC, and BD through 2-1/4 in | BD over 2-1/4 in |
|---|---|---|
| Carbon | 0.30–0.53 | 0.35–0.53 |
| Manganese | 0.60 min | 0.60 min |
| Phosphorus | 0.035 max | 0.035 max |
| Sulfur | 0.040 max | 0.040 max |
| Boron | 0.003 max | 0.003 max |
| Nickel | — | 0.40 min |
| Chromium | — | 0.40 min |
| Molybdenum | — | 0.15 min |
Limits per the current edition of the specification. The mill test report for your heat is the controlling document.
Stud Configurations
- Fully threaded studs, threaded end to end, for flange bolting where grip length varies.
- Double-end studs, threaded on both ends with an unthreaded center.
- Tap-end studs, with one end made to thread into a tapped hole.
Send the thread length on each end for double-end and tap-end studs.
Applications and Industries
- Heavy equipment and structural bolting: Large-diameter studs and rods where high clamp load is needed. See Industrial Manufacturing.
- Anchor rods: High-strength foundation rods for equipment and structures.
- Oil and gas: Skid, structure and equipment bolting outside pressure flanges. See Oil & Gas.
Certification and Traceability
Patriot Bolt is ISO 9001:2015 certified. Each A354 order includes mill test reports traceable to the heat, along with a certificate of conformance to the specification on your purchase order.
Studs are marked with the grade symbol and our identification, as the specification requires.
Compare A354 with other bolting grades in our Fastener Materials Matrix.
A354 BD / BC Stud Bolts FAQ
What is the difference between A354 BD and BC?
BD is the stronger grade: 150 ksi minimum tensile through 2-1/2 in, compared with 125 ksi for BC. Both are quenched and tempered alloy steel.
Which nut goes with A354 BD?
A563 Grade DH heavy hex nuts. A194 Grade 2H nuts are commonly substituted because DH is hard to find in larger sizes.
Can A354 be used at high temperature?
A354 is written for normal atmospheric temperatures, with only limited elevated-temperature use. For hot pressure joints, specify an A193 grade.
Can you make A354 studs to my drawing?
Yes. We machine A354 studs and threaded rod in any diameter up to 4 in, length and thread, from your drawing or purchase order.
Request a Quote
Send us the stud configuration, diameter, length, thread, specification and quantity, or upload your drawing. Our team will confirm the material and lead time. Call (281) 581-0176 or request a quote.
Also in A354: A354 BD / BC fasteners hub · A563 heavy hex nuts · Heavy hex bolts · All stud bolts