Designation: F1941/F1941M − 15

Standard Specification for

Electrodeposited Coatings on Mechanical Fasteners, Inch
and Metric1
This standard is issued under the fixed designation F1941/F1941M; the number immediately following the designation indicates the year
of original adoption or, in the case of revision, the year of last revision. A number in parentheses indicates the year of last reapproval.
A superscript epsilon (´) indicates an editorial change since the last revision or reapproval.

INTRODUCTION

This specification covers the coating of steel unified inch and metric mechanical fasteners by
electrodeposition. The properties of the coatings shall conform to the ASTM standards for the
individual finishes. This standard shall be used in place of ASTM B633 for mechanical fasteners.
Coating thickness values are based on standard tolerances for inch and metric external threads. The
coating must not cause the basic thread size to be transgressed by either the internal or external
threads. The method of designating inch coated threads shall comply with ASME B1.1 and ISO 965-1,
ISO 965-2, and ISO 965-3 for ISO metric coated threads.
With normal methods for depositing metallic coatings from aqueous solutions, there is a risk of
delayed failure due to hydrogen embrittlement for case hardened fasteners and fasteners having a
hardness above 39 HRC. Although this risk can be managed by selecting raw materials suitable for the
application of electrodeposited coatings and by using modern methods of surface treatment and post
heat-treatment (baking), the risk of hydrogen embrittlement cannot be completely eliminated.
Therefore, the application of a metallic coating by electrodeposition is not recommended for such
fasteners.

1. Scope* 1.3 Terms used in this specification are defined in Termi-

1.1 This specification covers application, performance and nology F1789.
dimensional requirements for electrodeposited coatings on 1.4 The following precautionary statement pertains to the
threaded fasteners with unified inch and metric screw threads, test method portion only, Section 9, of this specification: This
but it may also be applied to other threaded parts and standard does not purport to address all of the safety concerns,
non-threaded parts such as washers and pins. It specifies if any, associated with its use. It is the responsibility of the user
coating thickness, supplementary hexavalent chromate or non- of this standard to establish appropriate safety and health
hexavalent conversion finishes, corrosion resistance, precau- practices and determine the applicability of regulatory limita-
tions for managing the risk of hydrogen embrittlement and tions prior to use.
hydrogen embrittlement relief for high-strength and surface-
hardened fasteners. It also highlights the differences between 2. Referenced Documents
barrel and rack plating and makes recommendations as to the 2.1 ASTM Standards:2
applicability of each process. B117 Practice for Operating Salt Spray (Fog) Apparatus
1.2 The values stated in inch-pound units and SI metric B487 Test Method for Measurement of Metal and Oxide
units. The values stated in each system may not be exact Coating Thickness by Microscopical Examination of
equivalents; therefore each system shall be used independently Cross Section
of the other. Combining values from the two systems may B499 Test Method for Measurement of Coating Thicknesses
result in non-conformance to the standard. by the Magnetic Method: Nonmagnetic Coatings on
Magnetic Basis Metals
B504 Test Method for Measurement of Thickness of Metal-
lic Coatings by the Coulometric Method
1
This specification is under the jurisdiction of ASTM Committee F16 on
Fasteners and is the direct responsibility of Subcommittee F16.03 on Coatings on
2
Fasteners. For referenced ASTM standards, visit the ASTM website, www.astm.org, or
Current edition approved Sept. 1, 2015. Published October 2015. Originally contact ASTM Customer Service at [email protected]. For Annual Book of ASTM
approved in 1998. Last previous edition approved in 2010 as F1941 – 10. DOI: Standards volume information, refer to the standard’s Document Summary page on
10.1520/F1941_F1941M-15 the ASTM website.

*A Summary of Changes section appears at the end of this standard

Copyright © ASTM International, 100 Barr Harbor Drive, PO Box C700, West Conshohocken, PA 19428-2959. United States

1
 F1941/F1941M − 15

NOTE 1—Black dot (•) indicates test surface.

FIG. 1 Significant Surfaces on Externally Threaded Fasteners

B567 Test Method for Measurement of Coating Thickness 2.5 ISO Standards:6
by the Beta Backscatter Method ISO 965-1 ISO General Purpose Metric Screw Threads –
B568 Test Method for Measurement of Coating Thickness Tolerances – Part 1: Principles and Basic Data
by X-Ray Spectrometry ISO 965-2 ISO General Purpose Metric Screw Threads –
B659 Guide for Measuring Thickness of Metallic and Inor- Tolerances – Part 2: Limits of Sizes for General Purpose
ganic Coatings External and Internal Screw Threads
D6492 Practice for Detection of Hexavalent Chromium On ISO 965-3 ISO General Purpose Metric Screw Threads –
Zinc and Zinc/Aluminum Alloy Coated Steel Tolerances – Part 3: Deviations for Construction Screw
E376 Practice for Measuring Coating Thickness by Threads
Magnetic-Field or Eddy-Current (Electromagnetic) Test- ISO 4042 Electroplated Coatings
ing Methods
F519 Test Method for Mechanical Hydrogen Embrittlement 3. Terminology
Evaluation of Plating/Coating Processes and Service En- 3.1 Definitions:
vironments 3.1.1 reference area—the area within which a specified
F606/F606M Test Methods for Determining the Mechanical number of single measurements are required to be made.
Properties of Externally and Internally Threaded 3.1.2 sealant—chemical with or without integral lubricant
Fasteners, Washers, Direct Tension Indicators, and Rivets applied on the substrate which forms a composite layer with a
F788 Specification for Surface Discontinuities of Bolts, conversion coating in order to improve chemical resistance,
Screws, and Studs, Inch and Metric Series corrosion protection, UV resistance, etc.
F1470 Practice for Fastener Sampling for Specified Me-
chanical Properties and Performance Inspection 3.1.3 significant surface—Figs. 1 and 2 illustrate significant
F1624 Test Method for Measurement of Hydrogen Em- surfaces on standard externally and internally threaded fasten-
brittlement Threshold in Steel by the Incremental Step ers and washers.
Loading Technique 3.1.4 top coat—additional layer with or without integral
F1789 Terminology for F16 Mechanical Fasteners lubricant applied on a substrate in order to achieve functional
F1940 Test Method for Process Control Verification to properties such as torque-tension control, color, chemical
Prevent Hydrogen Embrittlement in Plated or Coated resistance, etc.
Fasteners
F2078 Terminology Relating to Hydrogen Embrittlement 4. Classification
Testing 4.1 Coating Material—The coating material shall be se-
2.2 ASME Standards:3 lected and designated in accordance with Table 1.
B1.1 Unified Inch Screw Threads (UN and UNR Thread 4.2 Coating Thickness—The coating thickness shall be se-
Form) lected and designated in accordance with Table 2.
B1.2 Gages and Gaging for Unified Inch Screw Threads
4.3 Conversion Finish—The conversion finish shall be se-
B1.16M Gages and Gaging for Metric M Screw Threads
lected and designated in accordance with Table 3. When not
B18.6.3 Machine Screws, Tapping Screws, and Metallic
specified, hexavalent chromium, or hexavalent chromium free
Drive Screws (Inch Series)
2.3 National Aerospace Standard (AIA):4
NASM-1312-5 Fast Test Method – Method 5: Stress Dura- 6
Available from American National Standards Institute (ANSI), 25 W. 43rd St.,
bility 4th Floor, New York, NY 10036, http://www.ansi.org.

2.4 IFI Standard:5

IFI-142 Hydrogen Embrittlement Risk Management

3
Available from American Society of Mechanical Engineers (ASME), ASME
International Headquarters, Three Park Ave., New York, NY 10016-5990, http://
www.asme.org.
4
Available from Standardization Documents Order Desk, DODSSP, Bldg. 4,
Section D, 700 Robbins Ave., Philadelphia, PA 19111-5098. NOTE 1—Black dot (•) indicates test surface.
5
Available from Industrial Fasteners Institute (IFI), 1717 East 9th Street, Suite FIG. 2 Significant Surfaces on Internally Threaded Fasteners and
1105, Cleveland, OH 44114–2879. Washers

2
 F1941/F1941M − 15
TABLE 1 Designation of Common Coating Materials tems.
Coating Designation Coating Type 4.5.1 Only coating material layer(s).
Fe/Zn Zinc 4.5.2 Coating material layer(s) plus conversion finish (for
Fe/Cd Cadmium
Fe/Zn-Co Zinc Cobalt Alloy
example Fe/Zn 5A).
Fe/Zn-Ni Zinc Nickel Alloy 4.5.3 Coating material layer(s) plus conversion finish plus
Fe/Zn-Fe Zinc Iron Alloy additional lubricant (example Fe/Zn 5ANL).
4.5.4 Coating material layer(s) plus conversion finish plus
sealant top coat (example Fe/Zn 5ANS).
TABLE 2 Designation of Coating Thickness – Inch and Metric
4.5.5 Coating material layer(s) plus conversion finish plus
NOTE 1—The conversion factor from inch to microns is 2.54 × 104 (for sealant top coat plus additional lubricant (example Fe/Zn
example, 0.0001 in. = 2.54 µm). 5ANSL).
Thickness Minimum Thickness
Designation in. µm 5. Ordering Information for Electroplating
3 0.0001 3
5 0.0002 5 5.1 When ordering threaded fasteners to be coated by
8 0.0003 8 electrodeposition in accordance with this specification, the
12 0.0005 12
following information shall be supplied to the electroplater:
5.1.1 The desired coating, coating thickness, the conversion
TABLE 3 Designation of Conversion Finish finish, the color and appearance (if applicable), or the classi-
Conversion Designation
fication codes as specified in Tables 1-3 and additional sealants
or top coats (for example, Fe/Zn 5C denotes yellow zinc plated
Type Typical Appearance Hexavalent
Hexavalent with a minimum thickness of 0.0002 in. or 5 µm for metric on
Chromium
Chromium
Free significant surfaces).
5.1.2 The identification of significant surfaces (optional).
Clear Transparent colorless with slight A AN
iridescence 5.1.3 The requirement, if any, for stress relief before
Blue-bright Transparent with a bluish tinge B BN electroplating, in which case the stress-relief conditions must
and slight iridescence be specified.
Yellow Yellow iridescent C CN
Opaque Olive green, shading to brown or D DN 5.1.4 The requirements, if any, for hydrogen embrittlement
bronze relief by heat treatment (baking), other than as required by
Black Black with slight iridescence E EN
6.4.1 must be specified. Requirements shall include baking
time and temperature.
5.1.5 The requirements, if any, for embrittlement testing
passivation such as trivalent chromium passivation or other other than as required by 6.4.3 must be specified.
non-chromium passivation finish shall be used at the option of
NOTE 2—Through hardened fasteners with a specified maximum
the manufacturer and its appearance shall be selected in hardness of 39 HRC and below have a low susceptibility to hydrogen
accordance with the designation selected in Table 3. embrittlement and do not require baking.
4.4 Supplemental Lubricant, Sealants or Top Coats— 5.1.6 The requirements, if any, for the type of electroplating
Additional sealants or top coats (with or without integral process (barrel-plating or rack-plating). See Section 10 and
lubricant) may be chosen to increase corrosion resistance and Appendix X1.
to achieve other specific properties such as torque-tension, UV 5.1.7 The designation of inch coated thread class shall
resistance, etc. The selection of the nature of a sealant or top comply with ASME B1.1 and metric threads shall comply with
coat should be based on desired additional properties. When ISO 965-1, ISO 965-2 and ISO 965-3.
sealants or top coats are specified, the classification code in
Table 3 shall be appended by adding the letter “S” (for example 6. Requirements
Fe/Zn 5ANS). When specifying a lubricant, the classification
code in Table 3shall be appended with the letter “L” (for 6.1 Coating Requirements—The electrodeposited coating as
example Fe/Zn 5ANSL). ordered shall cover all surfaces and shall meet the following
NOTE 1—When using a sealant or top coat, a separate conversion finish requirements:
layer and/or lubricant layer may not be required to achieve the corrosion 6.1.1 The coating metal deposit shall be bright or semi-
performance or provide lubricity. bright unless otherwise specified by the purchaser, smooth, fine
4.5 Fig. 3 illustrates the basic electroplating coating sys- grained, adherent and uniform in appearance.

FIG. 3 Basic Electroplating Coating Systems

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 F1941/F1941M − 15
6.1.2 The coated fastener shall be free of blisters, pits, 6.3.2.1 The applicability of the required coating to unified
nodules, roughness, unplated areas, and other defects that will inch and M series metric screw threads is limited by the basic
affect the function of the coating. deviation of the threads, and hence limited by the pitch
6.1.3 The coating shall not be stained, discolored or exhibit diameter, allowance and tolerance positions. Refer to Appen-
any evidence of corrosion products. dix X3 as a guideline for the tolerances of the various thread
6.1.3.1 Slight discoloration that results from baking, drying, sizes and classes and the coating thickness they will accom-
or electrode contact during rack-plating, or all of these, as well modate.
as slight staining that results from rinsing shall not be cause for 6.3.2.2 Because of the inherent variability in coating thick-
rejection. ness by the barrel-plating process, the application of a mini-
6.2 Corrosion Resistance—Coated fasteners, when tested by mum coating thickness of 0.0005 in. or 12 µm for metric is not
continuous exposure to neutral salt spray in accordance with recommended for a standard screw thread by this method due
9.3, shall show neither corrosion products of coatings nor basis to the fact that dimensional allowance of most threaded
metal corrosion products at the end of the test period. The fasteners normally does not permit it. If the size of the fastener
appearance of corrosion products visible to the unaided eye at is large enough to economically use the rack-plating process,
normal reading distance shall be cause for rejection, except then the latter shall be used to obtain this thickness require-
when present at the edges of the tested fasteners. Refer to ment. If heavier coatings are required, allowance for the
Annex A1 for neutral salt spray performance requirements for deposit buildup must be made during the manufacture of
zinc, zinc alloy and cadmium coatings. fasteners by adjusting pre-plating thread size.
6.3.3 Applicability to Wood Screws and Thread Forming
6.3 Thickness—The coating thickness shall comply with Screws—Any classification code in Tables 1-3 may be applied
requirements of Table 2 when measured in accordance with to screws that cut or form their own threads.
9.1.
6.3.1 Restrictions on Coating Thickness—This specification 6.4 Hydrogen Embrittlement Relief:
imposes minimum local thickness requirements at significant 6.4.1 Requirement for Baking for Through Hardened
surfaces in accordance with Table 2. Thick or thin local Fasteners—Unless otherwise specified by the purchaser, bak-
thickness in a location other than a significant surface shall not ing is not mandatory for fasteners with specified maximum
be a cause for rejection. However the following restrictions hardness 39 HRC and below (see Note 3). Coated fasteners
apply: made from steel heat treated to a specified hardness above 39
6.3.1.1 Minimum coating thickness at low current density HRC, and fasteners with captive washers made from hardened
areas, such as the center of a bolt or recesses, must be sufficient steel shall be baked to minimize the risk of hydrogen embrittle-
to provide for adequate conversion finish adhesion. ment.
6.3.1.2 External Threads—The after-coating dimensions of NOTE 3—With proper care many steel fasteners can be plated without
external threads must not exceed the thread’s basic size. Coated baking by correlating process conditions, and coating material to the
external threads must conform to a basic GO gage. Coated inch susceptibility of the fastener material to hydrogen embrittlement, and by
applying adequate process control procedures, such as those outlined in
external threads must accept a class 3A GO gage and coated Appendix X4.2. Test Method F1940 is a recognized verification method
metric threads must accept a class h (6h or 4h) GO gage (See for process control to minimize the risk of hydrogen embrittlement. Upon
ASME B1.2 and ASME B1.16M respectively). The NOTGO agreement between the supplier and the purchaser, this test method can be
gage size is the same after coating as before coating. If a coated used as a basis for determining if baking should be mandated in a
external thread does not freely enter the basic size GO gage, controlled process environment.
the thread discontinuity torque test in Specification F788 shall 6.4.2 Baking Conditions—Unless otherwise specified, mini-
be used to determine thread acceptability. mum baking times shall be in accordance with Table 4.
6.3.1.3 Internal Threads—The after-coating dimensions of 6.4.2.1 Bake temperatures shall always be kept below the
internal threads must not exceed the thread’s basic size. Coated tempering temperature of quenched and tempered steel parts to
internal threads must conform to a basic GO gage. Coated inch avoid alteration of mechanical properties by re-tempering.
internal threads must accept a class 2B or 3B GO gage and 6.4.2.2 Bake temperatures shall not exceed the values speci-
coated metric internal threads must accept a class H (6H, 5H or fied in Table 4 to avoid the risk of solid or liquid metal
4H) GO gage (See ASME B1.2 and ASME B1.16M respec- embrittlement.
tively). The NOTGO gage size is the same after coating as
NOTE 4—Bake times and temperatures are lowered to minimize the risk
before coating. of solid or liquid metal embrittlement resulting from alloy compositions
6.3.1.4 Surfaces such as threads, holes, deep recesses, bases such as those containing lead or from lowering melting point of the
of angles, and similar areas on which the specified thickness of coating material. For example, cadmium has a melting point of 610°F or
deposit cannot readily be controlled, are exempted from 310°C in comparison to zinc which has a melting point of 786°F or 419°C.
minimum thickness requirements unless they are specially 6.4.2.3 Baking to relieve hydrogen embrittlement should be
designated as not being exempted. When such areas are subject performed after electroplating, prior to the application of the
to minimum thickness requirements, the purchaser and the conversion finish and prior to the application of sealant and/or
manufacturer shall recognize the necessity for either thicker top coat, if any where baking temperatures can damage the
deposits on other areas or special racking. conversion film thereby negating its performance. After
6.3.2 Applicability to Unified Inch Screw and M Series experimentation, coaters may find other sequences are suitable.
Metric Threads: The time between coating and baking should be as short as

4
 F1941/F1941M − 15
TABLE 4 Hydrogen Embrittlement Relief RequirementsB
ASTM Hydrogen Tapping Screw Hydrogen
Specified Core Hardness Min – Max Baking ASTM Process Control
Min Baking Time Embrittlement Test Embrittlement Test
(HRC) TemperatureC,D Test RequirementE
RequirementE Requirement

Over 39 and up to 44A Min 14 h 375 to 425°F or F606/F606M or F1624 ASME B18.6.3 or F1624 F1940 or F519
190 to 220°C
Over 44A Min 24 h 375 to 425°F or F606/F606M or F1624 ASME B18.6.3 or F1624 F1940 or F519
190° to 220C
A
If Test Method F1940 process control testing is not performed, baking and product testing are mandatory in accordance with Table 4. If Test Method F1940 process control
testing is performed and is shown to consistently pass at a minimum of a monthly basis, then product testing and baking are not mandatory. If Test Method F1940 process
control testing is performed and does not pass, then baking and product testing are mandatory.
B
Variables such as coating type, coating thickness, baking temperatures and plating process (barrel or rack plating) can effect baking requirements. ASTM F1940 process
control testing can be used to isolate the effect of baking, and shall be the basis to increase or decrease baking times or to eliminate baking altogether. In the absence
of Test Method F1940 process control testing, baking and testing requirements specified in Table 4 shall be used as the default for all conditions.
C
Cadmium baking temperatures should be between 375 to 400°F or 190 to 205°C.
D
Part temperature.
E
When agreed upon between supplier and purchaser, alternative hydrogen embrittlement test methods such as NASM 1312-5 and alternative process control test
methods may be used.

possible. The requirement, if any, for a specific maximum carriage bolts, thin head parts where the minimum thickness of
allowable time (in hours) between electroplating and baking the head is less than 50% of the nominal diameter of the screw,
shall be explicitly specified by the purchaser at the time of shoulder type fasteners where the thread major diameter is
order. A reasonable tolerance of +2h resulting from normal more than 20% smaller than the shoulder diameter, or where a
operational constraints shall be assumed. (See Appendix X4.3 larger diameter, thin washer or collar is formed on a double
for additional information.) ended stud. An indication that high residual stresses may be
6.4.3 Hydrogen Embrittlement Testing—Unless otherwise present in a portion of the fastener is when localized hardness
specified by the purchaser, hydrogen embrittlement testing in below the surface exceeds 30 HRC.
accordance with Table 4 is mandatory for through hardened 6.5.1 Fasteners with configurations or conditions described
fasteners with a specified core hardness above 39 HRC unless above shall be stress relieved at a minimum temperature of
the electroplating process has been qualified in accordance 875°F or 470°C prior to electroplating to avoid brittle fractures.
with a test method in Table 4 (that is, the process has been Increased hardness resulting from thread rolling before, after or
shown not to cause embrittlement for a given product or class without thermal hardening are due to the creation of non-
of product). detrimental compressive stresses and do not require stress
6.4.4 Baking and Testing Requirements for Case Hardened relief before electroplating.
Screws—Surface hardening of case hardened screws introduces NOTE 5—Stress relieving is not intended in cases where residual
variables additional to the hardness of the core, notably case stresses are intentionally introduced, such as screws which are thread
hardness and case depth. Case hardened screws that are rolled after heat treatment.
electroplated shall adhere to the following baking require- 6.6 Non-Hexavalent Conversion Finishes—When the use of
ments. hexavalent chromium is prohibited, coated fasteners shall be
6.4.4.1 All lots of case hardened screws shall be baked for free of hexavalent chromium when tested in accordance with
a minimum of 4 h at 375 to 400°F or 190 to 205°C part the test method defined in 9.4.
temperature.
6.4.4.2 All case hardened screws shall be tested for hydro- 7. Dimensional Requirements
gen embrittlement in accordance with ASME B18.6.3 for all 7.1 Threaded components, except those with spaced and
self-tapping screws. For case hardened machine screws, the forming threads, supplied for electrodeposited coating inch
ASME B18.6.3 method shall be applied except use a hardened threads shall comply with ASME B1.1 and metric threads shall
threaded test plate having a minimum thickness of one nominal comply with ISO 965-1, ISO 965-2, and ISO 965-3 (see 6.3.1.2
diameter. The tapped holes shall be 2B for inch fasteners or 6H and 6.3.1.3). Screw threads that are specifically manufactured
for metric fasteners. to allow the application of 0.0005 in. or 12 µm for metric
6.4.5 Any lot that fails hydrogen embrittlement testing shall threads or greater coating thickness by the barrel-plating
be baked for 24 h at 375 to 400°F or 190 to 205°C part process, must adhere to a special allowance specified by the
temperature and retest shall be made using twice the original manufacturer or in ASME B1.1 or ISO 965-1, ISO 965-2, and
sample size. ISO 965-3. The other dimensional characteristics shall be as
6.5 Stress Relieving Requirements for Work Hardened Fas- specified in the applicable standard or drawing. It should be
teners Without Thermal Hardening—Some cold formed fasten- noted that modifications to the threads of a fastener could affect
ers that are not thermally hardened can fracture due to buildup its properties or performance, or both. Refer to Appendix X3
of high residual stresses at stress concentration points. The for further information on effects of coating on pitch diameter,
types of fastener shapes that make this a particular concern are allowances and tolerances for external and internal threads.

5
 F1941/F1941M − 15
8. Sampling When specified in the contract or purchase order, a salt spray
8.1 Sampling for coating thickness, salt spray and embrittle- test shall be conducted in accordance with Practice B117. To
ment testing shall be conducted based on lot size in accordance secure uniformity of results, samples shall be aged at room
with Guide F1470. temperature for 24 h before being subjected to the salt spray
test. The salt spray test shall commence within 72 h of
9. Test Methods completion of the aging period and prior to sorting, packaging
9.1 Coating Thickness—Unless otherwise specified, the re- and/or assembling.
quirement to measure coating thickness is applicable to sig- 9.4 Non-Hexavalent Conversion Finish—The presence of
nificant surfaces only. The test methods for determining the hexavalent chromium shall be determined in accordance with
coating thickness are defined in Test Methods B487, B499, Practice D6492.
B504, B567, B568, Guide B659, or Practice E376 as appli-
cable. 10. Electroplating Processes
9.2 Embrittlement Test Method—Unless otherwise 10.1 Two electroplating processes are most commonly used
specified, the embrittlement test method shall conform to those to apply a metallic coating by electrodeposition on mechanical
specified in Test Methods F1940 or F519 for process fasteners: barrel-plating and rack-plating. When thread fit or
verification, or F606/F606M, or F1624 for product testing. If thread integrity, or both, is a concern for externally threaded
agreed upon by the purchaser and supplier, alternative test fasteners, rack-plating is preferable to barrel-plating. Refer to
methods, such as NASM 1312-5 may be used for testing bolt Appendix X1.
and machine screws. The testing of both inch and metric
surface hardened screws shall be conducted in accordance with 11. Keywords
ASME B18.6.3. 11.1 baking; chromium; conversion finish; corrosion; elec-
9.3 Corrosion Resistance—The requirement to determine troplating; hydrogen embrittlement; protection; resistance;
corrosion resistance is applicable to significant surfaces only. sealant; thickness; topcoat; zinc

ANNEX

(Mandatory Information)

A1. NEUTRAL SALT SPRAY PERFORMANCE

A1.1 See Tables A1.1-A1.5. against one another corrosion testing results at any point after processing
NOTE A1.1—The salt spray results are only valid when tested after may be less than exhibited in the as processed condition and shall not be
processing before any handling, sorting, packaging, and/or transportation. used as criteria for acceptance (see 9.3).
Due to surface abrasions associated with types of movement of parts

6
 F1941/F1941M − 15
TABLE A1.1 Classification Code and Neutral Salt Spray Corrosion Protection Performance of Zinc and Cadmium Coatings – Inch and
MetricB,C
Minimum Coating Thickness Conversion or First Appearance of First Appearance of
First Appearance of
Classification Code Supplemental Finish White Corrosion Red Rust Cadmium,
in. µm Red Rust Zinc, (hour)
Designation Product, (hour) (hour)
Fe/Zn or Fe/Cd 3A 0.0001A 3 A 6 24 12
Fe/Zn or Fe/Cd 3B ... . .. B 8 24 12
Fe/Zn or Fe/Cd 3C ... . .. C 24 36 24
Fe/Zn or Fe/Cd 3D ... . .. D 24 36 24
Fe/Zn or Fe/Cd 3AN, ... . .. AN, BN, CN or DN 6 24 12
3BN, 3CN or 3DN

Fe/Zn or Fe/Cd 5A 0.0002 5 A 8 48 24

Fe/Zn or Fe/Cd 5B ... . .. B 12 72 36
Fe/Zn or Fe/Cd 5C ... . .. C 72 120 96
Fe/Zn or Fe/Cd 5D ... . .. D 72 168 96
Fe/Zn or Fe/Cd 5E ... . .. E 12 72
Fe/Zn or Fe/Cd 5AN, ... . .. AN, BN, CN or DN 8 48 24
5BN, 5CN, 5DN or
5EN

Fe/Zn or Fe/Cd 8A 0.0003 8 A 8 96 48

Fe/Zn or Fe/Cd 8B ... . .. B 24 120 72
Fe/Zn or Fe/Cd 8C ... . .. C 72 168 120
Fe/Zn or Fe/Cd 8D ... . .. D 96 192 144
Fe/Zn or Fe/Cd 8E ... . .. E 24 120 72
Fe/Zn or Fe/Cd 8AN, ... . .. AN, BN, CN or DN 8 96 48
8BN, 8CN, 8DN or
8EN

Fe/Zn or Fe/Cd 12A 0.0005 12 A 8 144 72

Fe/Zn or Fe/Cd 12B ... B 24 192 96
Fe/Zn or Fe/Cd 12C ... C 72 240 144
Fe/Zn or Fe/Cd 12D ... D 96 264 168
Fe/Zn or Fe/Cd 12E ... E 24 192 96
Fe/Zn or Fe/Cd 12AN, AN, BN, CN or DN 8 144 72
12BN, 12CN, 12DN
or 12EN

A
Low coating thickness impairs chromate adhesion and performance.
B
White haze is not considered as white corrosion.
C
Black spots shall not be cause of rejection because it does not impair corrosion resistance.

TABLE A1.2 Classification Code and Neutral Salt Spray Protection of Zinc Coatings with Hexavalent Chromium free Passivate Finish
with Sealant Top Coat – Inch and MetricA,B
Minimum Coating Thickness Conversion or First Appearance of
First Appearance of
Classification Code Supplemental Finish Zinc Alloy Corrosion
in. µm Red Rust (hour)
Designation Product (hour)
Fe/Zn 5 ANS, BNS, 0.0002 5 ANS, BNS, CNS, DNS 96 120
CNS, DNS or ENS or ENS
Fe/Zn 8 ANS, BNS, 0.0003 8 ... 96 192
CNS, DNS or ENS
Fe/Zn 12 ANS, BNS, 0.0005 12 ... 96 240
CNS, DNS or ENS
A
White haze is not considered as white corrosion.
B
Black spots shall not be cause of rejection because it does not impair corrosion resistance.

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 F1941/F1941M − 15
TABLE A1.3 Classification Code and Neutral Salt Spray Corrosion Protection Performance of Zinc-Cobalt Coatings – Inch and Metric
Minimum Coating Thickness Conversion or First Appearance of
First Appearance of
Classification Code Supplemental Finish Zinc Alloy Corrosion
in. µm Red Rust (hour)
Designation Product (hour)

Fe/Zn-Co 5C 0.0002 5 C 96 240

Fe/Zn-Co 5D ... D 96 240
Fe/Zn-Co 5E ... E 100 240
Fe/Zn-Co 5S ... S 196 340

Fe/Zn-Co 8C 0.0003 8 C 96 240

Fe/Zn-Co 8D ... D 96 240
Fe/Zn-Co 8E ... E 100 240
Fe/Zn-Co 8S S 200 340

Fe/Zn-Co 12B 0.0005 12 B 12 240

Fe/Zn-Co 12C ... C 96 400
Fe/Zn-Co 12D ... D 96 400
Fe/Zn-Co 12E ... E 100 400
Fe/Zn-Co 12S S 196 500

TABLE A1.4 Classification Code and Neutral Salt Spray Corrosion Protection Performance of Zinc-Nickel Coatings – Inch and Metric
Minimum Coating Thickness Conversion or First Appearance of
First Appearance of
Classification Code Supplemental Finish Zinc Alloy Corrosion
in. µm Red Rust (hour)
Designation Product (hour)

Fe/Zn-Ni 5B 0.0002 5 B 20 150

Fe/Zn-Ni 5C ... C 120 500
Fe/Zn-Ni 5D ... D 180 750
Fe/Zn-Ni 5E ... E 100 500
Fe/Zn-Ni 5BS ... BS 150 300
Fe/Zn-Ni 5CS ... CS 240 620
Fe/Zn-Ni 5DS ... DS 300 1000
Fe/Zn-Ni 5ES ... ES 220 620

Fe/Zn-Ni 8B 0.0003 8 B 20 240

Fe/Zn-Ni 8C ... C 120 720
Fe/Zn-Ni 8D ... D 180 960
Fe/Zn-Ni 8E ... E 100 720
Fe/Zn-Ni 8BS ... BS 150 400
Fe/Zn-Ni 8CS ... CS 240 840
Fe/Zn-Ni 8DS ... DS 300 1200
Fe/Zn-Ni 8ES ... ES 220 840

Fe/Zn-Ni 12B 0.0005 12 B 20 500

Fe/Zn-Ni 12C ... C 120 960
Fe/Zn-Ni 12D ... D 180 1000
Fe/Zn-Ni 12E ... E 100 960
Fe/Zn-Ni 12BS ... BS 150 620
Fe/Zn-Ni 12CS ... CS 240 1080
Fe/Zn-Ni 12DS ... DS 300 1500
Fe/Zn-Ni 12ES ... ES 220 1080

TABLE A1.5 Classification Code and Neutral Salt Spray Corrosion Protection Performance of Zinc-Iron Coatings – Inch and Metric
Minimum Coating Thickness Conversion or First Appearance of
First Appearance of
Classification Code Supplemental Finish Zinc Alloy Corrosion
in. µm Red Rust (hour)
Designation Product (hour)
Fe/Zn-Fe 5E 0.0002 5 E 144 312

Fe/Zn-Fe 8E 0.0003 8 E 144 312

Fe/Zn-Fe 12E 0.0005 12 E 144 480

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 F1941/F1941M − 15
APPENDIXES

(Nonmandatory Information)

X1. STANDARD ELECTRODEPOSITION PROCESSES

X1.1 Barrel-Plating Process—The preparation and metallic accentuated with increasing length and decreasing diameter of
coating of threaded fasteners is usually accomplished by the the screw or bolt. The extremity-to-center coating thickness
barrel-plating process. In this process, quantities of an item are ratio increases with increasing length and decreasing diameter,
placed within a containment vessel, called a barrel. The barrel but is also a function of process parameters such as plating
is designed to move the group of items, together, through each solution chemistry and efficiency, anodic/cathodic efficiency,
of the process steps, allowing ready ingress and egress of average current density and plating time.
processing solutions and rinses. As the barrel is moved through
the process steps, it is also rotated such that the individual X1.2 Rack-Plating Process—The preparation and metallic
items are constantly cascading over one another. This can coating of threaded fasteners can be accomplished by the
damage the external threads of fasteners. The effect of thread rack-plating process, particularly on large size fasteners where
damage is worse on heavy fine threaded fasteners than on light thread fit or damage, or both, is a concern, or for smaller size
coarse threaded fasteners. In some of the process steps, notably fasteners, when it is economically feasible. In this process,
the electrocleaning and electroplating steps, an electric current quantities of an item are placed on a support, called a rack. The
is applied to the group of items. The cascading action randomly rack is designed to move the group of items, together, through
exposes the surface of each individual piece to the process each of the process steps, allowing ready ingress and egress of
electrodes while also maintaining electrical continuity between processing solutions and rinses. In some of the process steps,
all of the parts. The local coating thickness on a part is a result notably the electrocleaning and electroplating steps, an electric
of the electrical current density at that location. Therefore, the current is applied to the group of items. The electrical
coating thickness on an individual screw or bolt tends to be continuity is maintained between the parts by the rack itself.
greatest at the extremities (head and threaded tip). The extremi- The average current density is usually low enough such that the
ties being the high current density areas receive the greatest extremity-to-center coating thickness ratio is much lower than
coating thickness. In contrast, the center or recesses such as the with barrel-plating. The external thread damage is also mini-
bottom of the threads, which are the low current density areas, mized in comparison to barrel-plating due to the absence of
receive the lowest coating thickness. This phenomenon is tumbling.

X2. GUIDELINES FOR CHOOSING BETWEEN BARREL-PLATING AND RACK-PLATING

X2.1 Short screws and bolts are those with a length-to- plating process for each size of externally inch series coarse
diameter ratio equal to or less than 5. Long screws and bolts (UNC), fine (UNF), and metric threaded fasteners for all
have a length-to-diameter ratio greater than 5 but less than 10. thickness classes in Table 2. For externally threaded fasteners
Special processing is normally required for bolts with a ratio with UNS and UN thread series, rack-plating is recommended.
greater than 10 in order to minimize the extremity-to-center For internally threaded fasteners barrel-plating is generally
thickness ratio. suitable.
X2.2 Tables X2.1-X2.3 indicate the recommended electro-

TABLE X2.1 Recommended Electroplating Process for Each Size of Externally Coarse Threaded Fasteners (UNC)
NOTE 1—Barrel-plating process (B) and rack-plating process (R).
Diameter Length (L)
(D),
(in.) L # 5D 5D < L # 10D 10D < L # 20D 20D < L # 30D L > 30D
14 ⁄ B B B B R
⁄
5 16 B B B B R
38 ⁄ B B B R R
⁄
7 16 B B B R R
12 ⁄ B B R R R
⁄
9 16 B B R R R
⁄
58 B B R R R
⁄
34 B R R R R
7⁄ 8 R R R R R
1–4 R R R R R

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 F1941/F1941M − 15
TABLE X2.2 Recommended Electroplating Process for Each Size of Externally Fine Threaded Fasteners (UNF)
NOTE 1—Barrel-plating process (B) and rack-plating process (R).
Diameter Length (L)
(D),
(in.) L # 5D 5D < L # 10D 10D < L # 20D 20D < L # 30D L > 30D
14 ⁄ B B B B R
⁄
5 16 B B B R R
38 ⁄ B B B R R
⁄
7 16 B B R R R
12 ⁄ B B R R R
⁄
9 16 B B R R R
⁄
58 B R R R R
⁄
34 R R R R R
7⁄ 8 R R R R R
1–4 R R R R R

TABLE X2.3 Recommended Electroplating Process for Each Size of Externally Threaded Metric Fasteners

NOTE 1—Barrel-plating process (B) and rack-plating process (R).

Diameter Length (L)
(D),
(mm) L # 5D 5D < L # 10D 10D < L # 20D 20D < L # 30D L > 30D
M1.6-M4 B B B B R
M5-M6 B B B R R
M8-M10 B B B R R
M12 B B R R R
M14 B B R R R
M16 B B R R R
M20 B R R R R
M24 R R R R R
M30-M100 R R R R R

X3. COATING ACCOMMODATION TOLERANCES FOR EXTERNALLY AND INTERNALLY THREADED FASTENERS

X3.1 This specification does not impose maximum thick- acceptance using a basic Class 3A GO gage for inch series
ness values on high current density areas, where the coating threads, and 6h GO gage for metric series threads. Class 2A
thickness tends to be the greatest. On an externally threaded and 6g shall be used as respective NOT-GO gages.
fastener this occurs at the threaded tip. Measuring coating
thickness on the threaded portion of a fastener is possible but X3.3 In certain cases size limits must be adjusted, within the
impractical for in-process quality control verification. For this tolerances, prior to coating, in order to insure proper thread fit.
reason the control mechanism specified in this document is by This applies to the following cases:
means of GO thread gages. Nevertheless Tables X3.1-X3.5 X3.3.1 Standard internal threads, because they provide no
illustrate maximum coating thickness permitted by inch series allowance for coating thickness.
Class 2A allowance, metric tolerance class 6g and are supplied X3.3.2 Where the external thread has no allowance, such as
as an informative guideline. Class 3A threads.
NOTE X3.1—The following information is based on ASME B1.1
Section 7 and ISO 965-1, ISO 965-2, and ISO 965-3. Those standards X3.3.3 Where allowance must be maintained after coating
should be consulted for more detailed information. for trouble free thread fit.
X3.2 Size limits for standard external inch series 1A and 2A X3.4 Tables X3.1-X3.5 provide maximum thickness values
thread classes and metric tolerance classes 6g apply prior to based only on the allowance for the 2A inch series thread
coating. The external thread allowance may thus be used to classes and metric thread classes 6g. It assumes that the
accommodate the coating thickness on threaded fasteners, external thread pitch diameter is at the maximum and that the
provided the maximum coating thickness is no more than 1⁄4 of internal thread pitch diameter is at the minimum of the
the allowance. Thus, threads after coating are subject to tolerance (see Fig. X3.1 and Fig. X3.2).

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 F1941/F1941M − 15
TABLE X3.1 Coating Accommodation Tolerances for Externally
Coarse Threaded (UNC) Fasteners
Pitch Diameter Allowance Maximum Allowable
Thread Pitch, Diameter, for 1A and 2A Thread Coating Thickness
TPI in. Classes, on Threaded Tip,
in. × 0.0001 in.
20 14 ⁄ 0.0011 2.75
18 ⁄
5 16 0.0012 3.00
16 38 ⁄ 0.0013 3.25
14 ⁄
7 16 0.0014 3.50
13 12 ⁄ 0.0015 3.75
12 ⁄
9 16 0.0016 4.00
11 ⁄
58 0.0016 4.00
10 ⁄
34 0.0018 4.50
9 7⁄ 8 0.0019 4.75
8 1 0.0020 5.00
7 11⁄8 and 11⁄4 0.0022 5.50
6 13⁄8 and 11⁄2 0.0024 6.00
5 1 1⁄ 4 0.0027 6.75
4 1⁄ 2 2 and 21⁄4 0.0029 7.25
4 2 1⁄ 2 0.0031 7.75
4 23⁄4 and 3 0.0032 8.00
4 31⁄4 and 31⁄2 0.0033 8.25
4 33⁄4 and 4 0.0034 8.50

TABLE X3.2 Coating Accommodation Tolerances for Externally Fine Threaded (UNF) Fasteners
Pitch Diameter Maximum Allowable
Thread
Diameter, Allowance for 1A and Coating Thickness on
Pitch,
in. 2A Thread Classes, Threaded Tip,
TPI
in. × 0.0001 in.
28 1⁄ 4 0.0010 2.50
24 ⁄ and 3⁄8
5 16 0.0011 2.75
20 7⁄16 and 1⁄2 0.0013 3.25
18 9⁄16 and 5⁄8 0.0014 3.50
16 3⁄ 4 0.0015 3.75
14 7⁄ 8 0.0016 4.00
12 1, 11⁄8 and 11⁄4 0.0018 4.50
12 13⁄8 and 11⁄2 0.0019 4.75

TABLE X3.3 Coating Accommodation Tolerances for Externally TABLE X3.5 Coating Accommodation Tolerances for Externally
Threaded (UNS) Fasteners Threaded Class 6g and 4g6g Metric Fasteners
Pitch Diameter Allowance Maximum Allowable Pitch Diameter Maximum Allowable
Thread Thread
Diameter, for 1A and 2A Thread Coating Thickness on Diameter, Allowance for 6g Coating Thickness
Pitch, Pitch,
in. Classes, Threaded Tip, in. Tolerance Positions, on Threaded Tip,
TPI mm
in. × 0.0001 in. µm µm
0.35 M1.6 –19 4
14 1 0.0017 4.25 0.4 M2 –19 4
0.45 M2.5 –20 5
0.5 M3 –20 5
TABLE X3.4 Coating Accommodation Tolerances for Externally 0.6 M3.5 –21 5
0.7 M4 –22 5
Threaded (UN) Fasteners
0.8 M5 –24 6
Pitch Diameter Maximum Allowable 1 M6 –26 6
Thread
Diameter, Allowance for 2A Coating Thickness 1.25 M8 –28 7
Pitch,
in. Thread Classes, on Threaded Tip, 1.5 M10 –32 8
TPI
in. × 0.0001 in. 1.75 M12 –34 8
8 1 1⁄8 and 1 1⁄4 0.0021 5.25 2 M14, M16 –38 9
8 13⁄8 , 11⁄2 and 15⁄8 0.0022 5.50 2.5 M20 –42 10
8 13⁄4 , 17⁄8 and 2 0.0023 5.75 3 M24 –48 12
8 21⁄4 and 21⁄2 0.0024 6.00 3.5 M30 –53 13
8 2 3⁄4 0.0025 6.25 4 M36 –60 15
8 3, 31⁄4 and 31⁄2 0.0026 6.50 4.5 M42 –63 15
8 33⁄4 and 4 0.0027 6.75 5 M48 –71 17
5.5 M56 –75 18
6 M64, M72, M80, M90, –80 20
M100

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 F1941/F1941M − 15

FIG. X3.1 Relationship of Pitch Diameter Allowance for Classes of Fit on 1⁄2-13 UNC Thread

FIG. X3.2 Metric Tolerance System for Screw Threads

X4. APPLICATION REQUIREMENTS

X4.1 Cleaning of Basis Metal—Thorough cleaning of the combination with stress, either externally applied or internal
basis metal is essential in order to ensure satisfactory adhesion, residual stress. [Terminology F2078]
appearance and corrosion resistance of the coating. X4.2.2 Research Information—— Results of ongoing re-
search related to hydrogen embrittlement of steel fasteners are
X4.2 Hydrogen Embrittlement Consideration:
summarized in the following technical reports endorsed by the
X4.2.1 General Discussion—When atomic hydrogen enters fastener industry.
steel and certain other metals and alloys, it can with time cause (1) Fundamentals of Hydrogen Embrittlement in Steel
loss of ductility and/or strength, which can lead to cracking Fasteners, S. Brahimi, 2014. Available from the Industrial
(usually micro-cracks) and eventually to catastrophic brittle Fasteners Institute (IFI), www.indfast.org/info/free-technical-
failures at applied stresses below the normal strength of the info.asp
material. A typical definition for hydrogen embrittlement in (2) ISO Technical Report ISO/TR 20491:2015, Fundamen-
literature and standards is as follows. tals of Hydrogen Embrittlement in Steel Fasteners.
X4.2.1.1 Hydrogen Embrittlement (HE)—a permanent loss NOTE X4.1—As of the publication of F1941/F1941M-15, the ISO
of ductility in a metal or alloy caused by hydrogen in technical report was undergoing final draft revision as ISO/DTR

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 F1941/F1941M − 15
20491:2015, by ISO Technical Committee TC2 on Fasteners. largely unsupported by data, and have been adopted primarily
These reports summarize into “know-how” findings flowing as a precaution against manufacturing errors that could render
out of scientific research at McGill University, Montreal, the material significantly more susceptible than it should be.
Canada. McGill’s hydrogen embrittlement (HE) research pro- Rather, it is appropriate to classify susceptible fastener prod-
gram began in 2006 as a collaborative research and develop- ucts as those having minimum specified hardness above 39
ment (CRD) project, co-sponsored by a number of industrial HRC (380 HV). This classification is based on both scientific
partners and the government of Canada. The ongoing research research and longstanding fastener industry practice.
follows two distinct tracks: X4.2.4 Process Considerations—The following are some
(i) fastener materials susceptibility, and general recommendations for managing the risk of hydrogen
(ii) interactions of fastener materials with coatings and embrittlement. For more detailed information refer to IFI-142.
coating processes. X4.2.4.1 Clean the fasteners in non-cathodic alkaline solu-
NOTE X4.2—One of many tangible outcomes is that the research results tions and in inhibited acid solutions.
have informed the revision of fastener electroplating standards, notably, X4.2.4.2 Use abrasive cleaners for fasteners having a hard-
F1941/F1941M and ISO 4042. ness of 40 HRC or above and case hardened fasteners.
X4.2.3 Material Susceptibility—Material susceptibility is a X4.2.4.3 Manage anode/cathode surface area and efficiency,
function of the material (metallurgical/ mechanical) condition resulting in proper control of applied current densities. High
and is the fundamental basis for understanding HE phenomena, current densities increase hydrogen charging.
which when simply stated is the study of how a stressed X4.2.4.4 Use high efficiency plating processes such as zinc
material performs in the absence and then in the presence of chloride or acid cadmium.
absorbed hydrogen. Material strength (that is, tensile strength X4.2.4.5 Control the plating bath temperature to minimize
and/or hardness) has a first order effect on HE susceptibility. As the use of brighteners.
strength increases, steel becomes less ductile, less tough and X4.2.4.6 Select raw materials with a low susceptibility to
more susceptible to HE. By the same token, at equal strength, hydrogen embrittlement by controlling steel chemistry,
steel that exhibits lower toughness is inherently more brittle microstructure, and mechanical properties.
and more susceptible to HE. The susceptibility of steel fasten-
ers increases significantly when the specified hardness is above X4.3 The time between coating and baking should be kept
39 HRC (380 HV). Steel fasteners with a specified hardness as short as possible as a matter of good practice. The intent of
below 39 HRC (380 HV), for example, SAE J429 Grade 8, ISO such practice is to minimize the extraction of interstitial
898-1 PC 10.9 bolts) normally have no significant susceptibil- hydrogen; it is possible that a portion of the interstitial
ity to hydrogen embrittlement failure. In other words, they can hydrogen becomes trapped and more difficult to bake out. It is
tolerate the presence of higher concentrations of hydrogen not possible to tie a subjective matter of good practice to an
without any delayed degradation of their mechanical strength. exact length of time between coating and baking. The often
This assertion assumes that the fasteners were produced by used approach of specifying an exact time is intended as a
well controlled manufacturing processes using appropriately quality assurance mechanism for managing good practice. It
selected steel of adequate quality. The critical hardness thresh- should not be used as a fixed criteria for acceptability of a
old for heat treated quench and tempered steel fasteners will fastener lot and it definitely should not be misused as the basis
vary for a given product due to second order effects of for explain the cause of a fastener failure.
chemistry, tempering temperature and sub-microstructure.
These second order effects may vary the threshold value by as X4.4 Process Control Verification—Test Method F1940 is
much as 6 1.0 HRC (~6 10 HV). Additionally, non- designed to be used as a test method for process control to
homogeneity of the metallurgical structure resulting from minimize the risk of internal hydrogen embrittlement. Periodic
poorly controlled heat treatment (for example, incomplete sampling inspections are conducted according to a test plan
martensite transformation, unintended carburization) and/or designed for each specific process. The frequency of testing
impurities such as non-metallic inclusions can dramatically must initially establish and subsequently verify over time, the
increase the susceptibility of the steel in ways that are ability of a process to coat parts that are not at risk of failing
measurable but unpredictable. With respect to IHE avoidance, from internal hydrogen embrittlement.
some standards have defined critical hardness limits that are X4.4.1 A historical perspective of the topic of Hydrogen
lower, ranging from 31 to 35 HRC. However, these values are Embrittlement Risk Management is given in IFI-142.

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 F1941/F1941M − 15

X5. USE OF TRIVALENT CHROMIUM (Cr+3) ON COATED FASTENERS

X5.1 In applications where the use of hexavalent chromium chromium (Cr+6), the use of yellow dye with trivalent chro-
(Cr +6) is prohibited, coated fasteners with a supplementary mium (Cr+3) does not give the same corrosion resistance as
finish can be supplied with a trivalent chromium (Cr +3). yellow hexavalent chromium. Therefore to achieve the same
X5.1.1 Additionally, since yellow iridescence noted in the salt spray resistance with trivalent chromium, the addition of a
designation C of Table 3 is characteristic of hexavalent sealant is necessary.

SUMMARY OF CHANGES

Committee F16 has identified the location of selected changes to this standard since the last issue (F1941–10)
that may impact the use of this standard. (Approved September, 2015.)

Committee F16 undertook a major initiative to consolidate (3) Added conversion finish designations and introduced the
F1941 and F1941M and clarify it requirements, some details of use of sealants and top coats in 4.4 and illustrated the coating
which are listed below. systems in Fig. 3.
(1) This revision is a combination of ASTM F1941 and (4) Modified hydrogen embrittlement baking and testing re-
F1941M to create a consolidated standard. As a result, numer- quirements throughout 6.4 and added Table 4.
ous added references to metric specifications and SI units are (5) Modified the salt spray requirements for zinc and cadmium
located throughout standard. coatings in Table A1.1.
(2) Added allowance for standard to be used with non-threaded
fasteners.

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