Thread Stripping
Stripping is when the threads shear off, usually on the nut or tapped hole, while the bolt body is intact.
Stripping at a glance
| Typical cause | Short thread engagement, weak nut, soft tapped material, oversize holes |
|---|---|
| Engagement rule of thumb | Steel nut: at least 1 x diameter; aluminum tapped hole: about 2 x diameter |
| Other causes | Cross-threading, coating build-up, mismatched thread series |
| Prevention | Correct nut grade, full engagement, thread inserts in soft metals |
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Thread stripping
What it is
FAILURE MODE
Stripping is when the threads shear off, usually on the nut or tapped hole, while the bolt body is intact.
stripped
Stripping: threads fail before the bolt
Stripping at a glance
Typical cause
Short thread engagement, weak nut, soft tapped material, oversize holes
Engagement rule of thumb
Steel nut: at least 1 x diameter; aluminum tapped hole: about 2 x diameter
Other causes
Cross-threading, coating build-up, mismatched thread series
Prevention
Correct nut grade, full engagement, thread inserts in soft metals
Key points
A nut should be the weaker link designed to fail by bolt fracture, not stripping; that is why nut grade must match the bolt.
Governing standards: ASME B1.1-2023; ISO 898-2:2022; FED-STD-H28. Editions shown are the latest confirmed as of September 2026. The drawing and the governing standard
always take precedence over this sheet.
torquing any fastener. Verify the current governing standard, project documents, OEM requirements, size, thread, coating and lot certification. To the fullest extent permitted by law, The Fastener App disclaims liability
arising from reliance on this reference.
Fastener Guide reference FG-448A0E · thefastenerapp.com/fastener-guide/failure-analysis/thread-stripping · © The Fastener App. Reference only — verify the current governing standard, drawing and manufacturer data before specifying or installing.

























