SAE J123

Description / Abstract: This SAE Recommended Practice defines, illustrates, and specifies allowable limits for various types of surface discontinuities that may occur or become apparent during the manufacture and processing of bolts, screws, and studs which are primarily intended for use in automotive assemblies subjected to severe dynamic stresses and necessitating use of high strength fasteners having appropriate fatigue-resistant properties.

The basic document does not include inspection sampling requirements. It is intended that the purchaser shall specify, in the original inquiry and purchase order, the inspection sampling requirements which the producer must satisfy to demonstrate the acceptability of bolts and screws with respect to surface discontinuities. Appendix A outlines inspection sampling plans applicable when such requirements are not specified by the purchaser in the original inquiry, purchase order, or in related specifications.

When the provisions of this document are specified by the purchaser, the fastener manufacturer must significantly increase production controls including machine set up, blank diameters, die lubrication, in-process inspection requirements, and reduced production rate.