Does anyone have experiance with the B18 Fastener numbering system?

[fsincox]

Do any of you use the B18 Fastener Part Identifying Number system for standard fasteners (based on ASME B18.24)? Do vendors know this system? Do you just use the number or do you prefece it by saying "B18 fastener number: bla, bla bla"?
Frank

 

[kmenke]

From a vendor's point of view, I would say most of us are going to struggle with the B18.24 numbering system. And since most of us don't get asked for them too often, we would still thumb through the current or in most cases an older revision to find what you may be looking for. The numbering system in theory could work. Unfortunately there's too much freedom to pick and choose characteristics that may or may not be standard (for example SAE J429 Grade 8 flat head socket cap screw) or a good idea to consider. If you have an idea on the standards you are considering, this is still the best way to specify what you want.