ASTM F680-20

Standard Test Methods for Nails

SIGNIFICANCE AND USE
4.1 When specified, the tests selected for application shall be performed to assure conformance with requirements stipulated in the product specification.
SCOPE
1.1 These test methods cover procedures for the testing of nails. The test or tests selected, and the requirements for compliance, will be as specified in the applicable product standard. Performance tests for nail withdrawal and lateral load capability are not included as they are covered by Test Methods D1761.  
1.2 The tests described are as follows:    
Section    
Dimensional tests  
5  
Tension test  
6  
Conventional bend test  
7  
Impact bend test  
8  
Rockwell hardness test  
9  
Coating weight test  
10  
Coating adherence test for zinc-coated nails  
11  
1.3 The values stated in inch-pound units are to be regarded as standard. The values given in parentheses are mathematical conversions to SI units that are provided for information only and are not considered standard.  
1.4 This standard does not purport to address all of the safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appropriate safety, health, and environmental practices and determine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use.  
1.5 This international standard was developed in accordance with internationally recognized principles on standardization established in the Decision on Principles for the Development of International Standards, Guides and Recommendations issued by the World Trade Organization Technical Barriers to Trade (TBT) Committee.

General Information

• Status: Published
• Publication Date: 14-Dec-2020
• ICS: 21.060.50 - Pins, nails
• Technical Committee: F16 - Fasteners
• Drafting Committee: F16.05 - Driven and Other Fasteners

Relations

• Refers: ASTM A370-24 - Standard Test Methods and Definitions for Mechanical Testing of Steel Products
• Effective Date: 01-Mar-2024
• Refers: ASTM D1761-20 - Standard Test Methods for Mechanical Fasteners in Wood and Wood-Based Materials
• Effective Date: 15-Apr-2020
• Refers: ASTM A370-19 - Standard Test Methods and Definitions for Mechanical Testing of Steel Products
• Effective Date: 01-Jul-2019
• Refers: ASTM E18-18 - Standard Test Methods for Rockwell Hardness of Metallic Materials
• Effective Date: 01-Jul-2018
• Refers: ASTM A370-17a - Standard Test Methods and Definitions for Mechanical Testing of Steel Products
• Effective Date: 15-Nov-2017
• Refers: ASTM E18-17 - Standard Test Methods for Rockwell Hardness of Metallic Materials
• Effective Date: 01-Jul-2017
• Refers: ASTM A370-17 - Standard Test Methods and Definitions for Mechanical Testing of Steel Products
• Effective Date: 01-Jan-2017
• Refers: ASTM A370-15 - Standard Test Methods and Definitions for Mechanical Testing of Steel Products
• Effective Date: 01-Nov-2015
• Refers: ASTM A370-14 - Standard Test Methods and Definitions for Mechanical Testing of Steel Products
• Effective Date: 15-May-2014
• Refers: ASTM A370-13 - Standard Test Methods and Definitions for Mechanical Testing of Steel Products
• Effective Date: 15-Nov-2013
• Refers: ASTM E18-12 - Standard Test Methods for Rockwell Hardness of Metallic Materials
• Effective Date: 01-Dec-2012
• Refers: ASTM D1761-12 - Standard Test Methods for Mechanical Fasteners in Wood
• Effective Date: 01-Nov-2012
• Refers: ASTM A370-12a - Standard Test Methods and Definitions for Mechanical Testing of Steel Products
• Effective Date: 15-Oct-2012
• Refers: ASTM F547-06(2012) - Standard Terminology of Nails for Use with Wood and Wood-Base Materials
• Effective Date: 01-Apr-2012
• Refers: ASTM A370-12 - Standard Test Methods and Definitions for Mechanical Testing of Steel Products
• Effective Date: 15-Mar-2012

Overview

ASTM F680-20 sets out standardized test methods for evaluating the properties and quality of nails. Developed by ASTM International, this specification provides procedures for assessing dimensional accuracy, mechanical properties, and coating characteristics of various nail products. The standard ensures that nails meet the requirements described in relevant product specifications, supporting manufacturers, engineers, and quality assurance professionals across construction, carpentry, and related industries.

Key Topics

ASTM F680-20 covers several essential procedures for nail testing, including:

• Dimensional Tests: Verify the length, shank diameter, head dimensions, straightness, head concentricity, point length, and deformations of both smooth and deformed (e.g., ring shank) nails.
• Tension Test: Applies primarily to the wire material used in nail manufacture, ensuring it meets performance criteria where required.
• Conventional Bend Test: Assesses ductility by measuring a nail’s ability to bend around a specified mandrel without fracturing.
• Impact Bend Test: Common in pallet nail testing, this procedure evaluates how nails react under a sudden impact, indicating potential for bending or failure.
• Rockwell Hardness Test: Measures the hardness of heat-treated nails, essential for ensuring durability and mechanical performance.
• Coating Weight Test: Determines the mass of protective coatings such as zinc, aluminum, or copper, enhancing nail corrosion resistance.
• Coating Adherence Test (Zinc-Coated Nails): Assesses whether the protective coating adheres properly to the nail’s surface, ensuring long-term protection against corrosion.

All measurements are typically performed using inch-pound units, with SI conversions provided for guidance only.

Applications

The ASTM F680-20 standard is widely used in:

• Manufacturing Quality Assurance: Producers use these testing methods during and after production to verify nail consistency and compliance with contractual or regulatory requirements.
• Product Specification Compliance: Architects, engineers, and procurement professionals reference F680-20 to specify, inspect, and accept nail products that meet specific project or application needs.
• Performance Validation: End-users and laboratories rely on these tests to ensure that nails deliver expected mechanical strength, coating integrity, and overall performance in construction, woodworking, packaging, and furniture industries.
• R&D and Process Control: Research and development teams utilize these protocols when developing new nail types, coatings, or manufacturing methods.

Related Standards

ASTM F680-20 references several other important standards for nail and fastener testing, including:

• ASTM D1761: Test Methods for Mechanical Fasteners in Wood and Wood-Based Materials, covering withdrawal and lateral load tests.
• ASTM A90/A90M: Test Method for Weight of Zinc Coating on Iron and Steel Articles.
• ASTM A370: Test Methods and Definitions for Mechanical Testing of Steel Products.
• ASTM A428/A428M: Test Method for Weight of Aluminum Coating.
• ASTM E18: Test Methods for Rockwell Hardness of Metallic Materials.
• ASTM F547: Terminology Relating to Nails for Wood and Wood-Based Materials.

Using ASTM F680-20 in conjunction with these related documents ensures comprehensive evaluation and specification of nails for diverse industrial and commercial applications.

Standards Content (Sample)

This international standard was developed in accordance with internationally recognized principles on standardization established in the Decision on Principles for the
Development of International Standards, Guides and Recommendations issued by the World Trade Organization Technical Barriers to Trade (TBT) Committee.
Designation: F680 − 20
Standard Test Methods for
Nails
ThisstandardisissuedunderthefixeddesignationF680;thenumberimmediatelyfollowingthedesignationindicatestheyearoforiginal
adoption or, in the case of revision, the year of last revision.Anumber in parentheses indicates the year of last reapproval.Asuperscript
epsilon (´) indicates an editorial change since the last revision or reapproval.
1. Scope* A90/A90M Test Method for Weight [Mass] of Coating on
Iron and Steel Articles with Zinc or Zinc-Alloy Coatings
1.1 These test methods cover procedures for the testing of
A370 Test Methods and Definitions for Mechanical Testing
nails. The test or tests selected, and the requirements for
of Steel Products
compliance, will be as specified in the applicable product
A428/A428M Test Method for Weight [Mass] of Coating on
standard.Performancetestsfornailwithdrawalandlateralload
Aluminum-Coated Iron or Steel Articles
capabilityarenotincludedastheyarecoveredbyTestMethods
D1761 Test Methods for Mechanical Fasteners in Wood and
D1761.
Wood-Based Materials
1.2 The tests described are as follows:
E18 Test Methods for Rockwell Hardness of Metallic Ma-
Section
terials
Dimensional tests 5
F547 Terminology of Nails for Use with Wood and Wood-
Tension test 6
Base Materials
Conventional bend test 7
Impact bend test 8
Rockwell hardness test 9
3. Terminology
Coating weight test 10
Coating adherence test for zinc-coated nails 11
3.1 Definitions—For definitions of terms used in this test
1.3 The values stated in inch-pound units are to be regarded method, refer to Terminology F547.
as standard. The values given in parentheses are mathematical
4. Significance and Use
conversions to SI units that are provided for information only
and are not considered standard.
4.1 When specified, the tests selected for application shall
be performed to assure conformance with requirements stipu-
1.4 This standard does not purport to address all of the
lated in the product specification.
safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the
responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appro-
5. Dimensional Tests
priate safety, health, and environmental practices and deter-
mine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use.
5.1 Dimensions to be evaluated include, but shall not be
1.5 This international standard was developed in accor-
limited to length, shank diameter, diameter or major dimen-
dance with internationally recognized principles on standard-
sions of head, straightness, head concentricity to shank, and
ization established in the Decision on Principles for the
length of point. For mechanically deformed nails, angle, depth,
Development of International Standards, Guides and Recom-
and configuration of deformations and other dimensional
mendations issued by the World Trade Organization Technical characteristics shall be measured when required. Unless
Barriers to Trade (TBT) Committee.
specified, any suitable measuring means as identified in these
test methods may be applied.
2. Referenced Documents
5.2 Measurement of smooth shank nails:
2.1 ASTM Standards: 5.2.1 Smooth shank nails shall be measured at the approxi-
mated mid-point of the shank length. Additional locations
along the shank may be selected as required.
5.2.2 Measurements shall not be taken across the gripper
These test methods are under the jurisdiction of ASTM Committee F16 on
marks.
Fasteners and are the direct responsibilities of Subcommittee F16.05 on Driven and
Other Fasteners.
5.2.3 Average of two measurements taken approximately
Current edition approved Dec. 15, 2020. Published January 2021. Originally
90° apart shall constitute the diameter measurement.
approved in 1980. Last previous edition approved in 2017 as F680-17. DOI:
10.1520/F0680-20.
5.3 Measurement of deformed shank nails diameters (See
For referenced ASTM standards, visit the ASTM website, www.astm.org, or
Note 1.)
contact ASTM Customer Service at [e-mail]. For Annual Book of ASTM
5.3.1 For deformed shank nails where the deformation
Standards volume information, refer to the standard’s Document Summary page on
the ASTM website. exists along the entire length of the shank.
*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
F680 − 20
5.3.1.1 Measure at the approximate mid-point of the shank specified in the product specification. The cold bending shall
length.Additional locations along the shank may be selected as be performed by any hand or power device that will deform the
required. sample closely about a mandrel of specified diameter through
5.3.1.2 Average of two measurements taken approximately the required angle without causing damage to the nail surface.
90° apart shall constitute the diameter measurement. The sample shall be considered to have failed if fracture occurs
5.3.1.3 These measurements will only provide a crest diam- prior to attainment of the required minimum bend angle.
eter.Analysis of crest diameter increase versus nail diameter is Unless otherwise specified, the conventional bend test shall not
not possible for this type of nail. be applied to annularly threaded nails or to the region of a nail
5.3.2 For deformed shank nails where the deformation does exhibiting gripper marks.
not extend along the entire length of the shank (Fig. 1).
5.3.2.1 Measure at the approximate mid-point of the de-
8. Impact Bend Test
formed portion of the shank. Additional locations along the
8.1 The impact test is primarily applicable to the testing of
deformed shank portion may be selected as required, including
pallet nails to assess their suitability for that application. The
at the top of the deformation (towards the head) and at the
testing device is shown in Fig. 2 and its operation is described
bottom of the deformation (towards the point) may also be
in Annex A1. For any given diameter, the data from this test
appropriate.
can be correlated with Rockwell hardness used to specify the
5.3.2.2 When the difference between the crest diameter of
mechanical properties of the nail. The impact bend test is
the deformed section and the nail diameter is required (defor-
intended as a convenient test that may be used in manufactur-
mation growth), measurements shall also be taken across the
ing and consumer quality monitoring of mechanical properties.
smooth shank portion (see 5.2) and the deformed shank portion
However, in the case of dispute, the Rockwell hardness test,
of the nail. The difference of the averages will determine
supplementedbytheconventionalbendtest,willbeconsidered
deformation growth.
the governing test.
5.4 Preferred measuring devices in order of preference:
5.4.1 Handheld micrometer,
9. Rockwell Hardness Test
5.4.2 Handheld calipers, and
9.1 This test is used to measure the hardness of heat-treated
5.4.3 Optical measuring device such as comparator, shadow
nails. Prepare flat surfaces by grinding or filing. Take care not
graph, etc. Optical devices will allow for the measurement of
to alter the tempered hardness of the nail during preparation of
ring pitch (spacing between rings) and ring root diameters.
the flats. The width of the prepared flat shall be sufficient to
NOTE 1—The process of nail shank deformation results in an increase
prevent edge bulge adjacent to each hardness impression. The
in diameter, or deformation growth across the crest diameter of the
thickness at the test section shall be sufficient to avoid a bulge
deformation.
or other visible markings on the surface opposite to the
impression. Hardness can be determined using a shank having
6. Tension Test
prepared parallel surfaces. Determine the hardness in accor-
6.1 Nails are not subject to tension testing. However, wire
dance withTest Methods E18. Usually three readings are made
used to make the nails may be tested as required by prior
on a nail and these readings are averaged for the final result.
agreement or to affect mill product control. The testing of wire
is covered in the general section of Test Methods A370 and
9.2 An al
...

This document is not an ASTM standard and is intended only to provide the user of an ASTM standard an indication of what changes have been made to the previous version. Because
it may not be technically possible to adequately depict all changes accurately, ASTM recommends that users consult prior editions as appropriate. In all cases only the current version
of the standard as published by ASTM is to be considered the official document.
Designation: F680 − 17 F680 − 20
Standard Test Methods for
Nails
This standard is issued under the fixed designation F680; 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.
1. Scope*
1.1 These test methods cover procedures for the testing of nails. The test or tests selected, and the requirements for compliance,
will be as specified in the applicable product standard. Performance tests for nail withdrawal and lateral load capability are not
included as they are covered by Test Methods D1761.
1.2 The tests described are as follows:
Section
Dimensional tests 5
Tension test 6
Conventional bend test 7
Impact bend test 8
Rockwell hardness test 9
Coating weight test 10
Coating adherence test for zinc-coated nails 11
1.3 The values stated in inch-pound units are to be regarded as standard. The values given in parentheses are mathematical
conversions to SI units that are provided for information only and are not considered standard.
1.4 This standard does not purport to address all of the safety problems,concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the
responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appropriate safety safety, health, and healthenvironmental practices and
determine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use.
1.5 This international standard was developed in accordance with internationally recognized principles on standardization
established in the Decision on Principles for the Development of International Standards, Guides and Recommendations issued
by the World Trade Organization Technical Barriers to Trade (TBT) Committee.
2. Referenced Documents
2.1 ASTM Standards:
A90/A90M Test Method for Weight [Mass] of Coating on Iron and Steel Articles with Zinc or Zinc-Alloy Coatings
A370 Test Methods and Definitions for Mechanical Testing of Steel Products
A428/A428M Test Method for Weight [Mass] of Coating on Aluminum-Coated Iron or Steel Articles
D1761 Test Methods for Mechanical Fasteners in Wood and Wood-Based Materials
E18 Test Methods for Rockwell Hardness of Metallic Materials
These test methods are under the jurisdiction of ASTM Committee F16 on Fasteners and are the direct responsibilities of Subcommittee F16.05 on Driven and Other
Fasteners.
Current edition approved June 1, 2017Dec. 15, 2020. Published June 2017January 2021. Originally approved in 1980. Last previous edition approved in 20122017 as
F680-80(2012).F680-17. DOI: 10.1520/F0680-17.10.1520/F0680-20.
For referenced ASTM standards, visit the ASTM website, www.astm.org, or contact ASTM Customer Service at [e-mail]. For Annual Book of ASTM Standards
volume information, refer to the standard’s Document Summary page on 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
F680 − 20
F547 Terminology of Nails for Use with Wood and Wood-Base Materials
3. Terminology
3.1 Definitions—For definitions of terms used in this test method, refer to Terminology F547.
4. Significance and Use
4.1 When specified, the tests selected for application shall be performed to assure conformance with requirements stipulated in
the product specification.
5. Dimensional Tests
5.1 Dimensions to be evaluated include, but shall not be limited to length, stockshank diameter, diameter or major dimensions of
head, straightness, head concentricity to shank, and length of point. For mechanically deformed nails, angle, depth, and
configuration of deformations shall be measured as specified. Other and other dimensional characteristics shall be measured when
required. Any Unless specified, any suitable measuring means as identified in these test methods may be applied.
5.2 Measurement of smooth shank nails:
5.2.1 Smooth shank nails shall be measured at the approximated mid-point of the shank length. Additional locations along the
shank may be selected as required.
5.2.2 Measurements shall not be taken across the gripper marks.
5.2.3 Average of two measurements taken approximately 90° apart shall constitute the diameter measurement.
5.3 Measurement of deformed shank nails diameters (See Note 1.)
5.3.1 For deformed shank nails where the deformation exists along the entire length of the shank.
5.3.1.1 Measure at the approximate mid-point of the shank length. Additional locations along the shank may be selected as
required.
5.3.1.2 Average of two measurements taken approximately 90° apart shall constitute the diameter measurement.
5.3.1.3 These measurements will only provide a crest diameter. Analysis of crest diameter increase versus nail diameter is not
possible for this type of nail.
5.3.2 For deformed shank nails where the deformation does not extend along the entire length of the shank (Fig. 1).
FIG. 1 Diameter Properties of a Ring Shank Nail
F680 − 20
5.3.2.1 Measure at the approximate mid-point of the deformed portion of the shank. Additional locations along the deformed shank
portion may be selected as required, including at the top of the deformation (towards the head) and at the bottom of the deformation
(towards the point) may also be appropriate.
5.3.2.2 When the difference between the crest diameter of the deformed section and the nail diameter is required (deformation
growth), measurements shall also be taken across the smooth shank portion (see 5.2) and the deformed shank portion of the nail.
The difference of the averages will determine deformation growth.
5.4 Preferred measuring devices in order of preference:
5.4.1 Handheld micrometer,
5.4.2 Handheld calipers, and
5.4.3 Optical measuring device such as comparator, shadow graph, etc. Optical devices will allow for the measurement of ring
pitch (spacing between rings) and ring root diameters.
NOTE 1—The process of nail shank deformation results in an increase in diameter, or deformation growth across the crest diameter of the deformation.
6. Tension Test
6.1 Nails are not subject to tension testing. However, wire used to make the nails may be tested as required by prior agreement
or to affect mill product control. The testing of wire is covered in the general section of Test Methods A370 and Supplement IV,
Round Wire Products.
7. Conventional Bend Test
7.1 This test is used as a means of testing the ductility of certain types of nails or of the wires used in the manufacture of nails.
The angle of bend and the mandrel diameter will be specified in the product specification. The cold bending shall be performed
by any hand or power device that will deform the sample closely about a mandrel of specified diameter through the required angle
without causing damage to the nail surface. The sample shall be considered to have failed if fracture occurs prior to attainment
of the required minimum bend angle. Unless otherwise specified, the conventional bend test shall not be applied to annularly
threaded nails or to the region of a nail exhibiting gripper marks.
8. Impact Bend Test
8.1 The impact test is primarily applicable to the testing of pallet nails to assess their suitability for that application. The testing
device is shown in Fig. 12 and its operation is described in Annex A1. For any given diameter, the data from this test can be
correlated with Rockwell hardness used to specify the mechanical properties of the nail. The impact bend test is intended as a
convenient test that may be used in manufacturing and consumer quality monitoring of mechanical properties. However, in the case
of dispute, the Rockwell hardness test, supplemented by the conventional bend test, will be considered the governing test.
9. Rockwell Hardness Test
9.1 This test is used to measure the hardness of heat-treated nails. Prepare flat surfaces by grinding or filing. Take care not to alter
the tempered hardness of the nail during preparation of the flats. The width of the prepared flat shall be sufficient to prevent edge
bulge adjacent to each hardness impressio
...