M3 × 0.5 Thread Dimensions

Basic information

Designation

M3 x 0.5

Thread system

ISO Metric

Series

coarse

Standard

ISO 261

Basic profile

ISO 68-1 basic profile

Flank angle

60°

Dimensions

Major diameter

3 mm

Pitch

0.5 mm

Threads per inch

50.8

Pitch diameter

2.68 mm

Minor diameter (external)

2.39 mm

Minor diameter (internal)

2.46 mm

Thread depth

0.307 mm

Recommended tap drill

Ø 2.5 mm

These figures follow the ISO 68-1 basic profile of ISO 261. A 60° basic profile uses a fundamental triangle height H = 0.866025 × P, with external minor diameter d₃ = d − 1.226869 × P and internal minor diameter D₁ = d − 1.082532 × P; the two differ because the external root is rounded while the internal crest is truncated. A 55° Whitworth profile uses H = 0.960491 × P and a thread height of 0.640327 × P. The recommended tap drill is given as nominal diameter minus pitch, which approximates 75% thread engagement — adjust it for tough materials or deep holes.

No specification in this database uses M3 × 0.5 yet.

Other pitches at the same 3 mm diameter — a fine pitch on a coarse diameter, or the reverse, is the usual substitution question.

Neighbouring sizes in ISO Metric.