ISO 1479:2011

Overview

ISO 1479:2011 is the International Standard that specifies the characteristics of hexagon head tapping screws with thread sizes from ST 2,2 to ST 9,5 inclusive. Published as the second edition in 2011, it replaces ISO 1479:1983 and was prepared by ISO/TC 2 (Fasteners), Subcommittee SC 13 (Fasteners with non‑metric thread). The standard covers dimensions, types, materials, product grades, tolerances and marking/ designation conventions for these tapping screws.

Key topics and requirements

• Scope: Applies to hexagon head tapping screws with thread sizes ST 2,2 → ST 9,5.
• Dimensions: Head, shank, thread and length dimensions are specified (see Figure 1 and Table 1 in the standard). Types include Type C, Type F, and Type R (rounded end). Preferred lengths and permissible ranges are defined.
• Thread form: Thread specification references ISO 1478 (Tapping screws thread).
• Materials & mechanical properties:
  • Steel tapping screws per ISO 2702 (heat‑treated steel tapping screws).
  • Corrosion‑resistant stainless steel grades per ISO 3506-4 (e.g., A2-20H, A4-20H, A5-20H).
• Tolerances & product grades: Product grade and dimensional tolerances are referenced to ISO 4759‑1; general fastener requirements to ISO 8992.
• Surface finishes & corrosion protection:
  • Electroplated coatings per ISO 4042.
  • Non‑electrolytically applied zinc flake coatings per ISO 10683.
  • Passivation of stainless steel per ISO 16048.
• Acceptance & inspection: Acceptance inspection procedures are covered by ISO 3269.
• Designation: Standardized designation format (example):
  Tapping screw ISO 1479 - ST 3,5 × 16 - A4-20H - R

Applications and users

• Who uses it:
  • Fastener manufacturers and suppliers specifying production and catalog data.
  • Design and mechanical engineers selecting tapping screws for assemblies.
  • Purchasing professionals ensuring compliance and interchangeability.
  • Quality and inspection teams performing acceptance testing.
• Practical uses:
  • Ensures consistent tapping screw dimensions, thread compatibility and mechanical properties for metal‑to‑metal and sheet metal assemblies.
  • Guides selection of appropriate material, coating and tolerance level for corrosion resistance and mechanical performance.
  • Enables unambiguous product designation for procurement and inventory.

Related standards

• ISO 1478 - Tapping screws thread
• ISO 2702 - Heat‑treated steel tapping screws
• ISO 3506‑4 - Stainless steel tapping screws
• ISO 4042, ISO 10683, ISO 16048 - Coatings and passivation
• ISO 4759‑1 - Tolerances for fasteners
• ISO 3269 - Acceptance inspection
• ISO 8992 - General fastener requirements

Keywords: ISO 1479:2011, hexagon head tapping screws, tapping screw dimensions, thread sizes ST 2,2 to ST 9,5, fastener standard, tapping screw designation.