Standardization of dimensional, physical, and performance requirements for the specification and manufacture of bolts, nut, rivets, screws, washers, and similar fasteners.  

The B18 Standards Committee currently meets two times per year in various locations throughout the United States. The meetings are generally held in April/May and November/December, and are open to the public. The B18 Subcommittees also meet in conjunction with the B18 Standards Committee. The B18 Committees are comprised of experts in the field of Fasteners. Members of the B18 Standards Committee are classified in the following interest classes: Producer/ Manufacturer, Distributor, General Interest, and User. The Committee works on writing new ASME American National Standards, revising current ASME Standards, and providing for the coordination of National and International Standards. The B18 Standards Committee operates under procedures of the American National Standards Institute.

On April 12, 2002, ASME approved the sunsetting of the ASME Fastener Accreditation Program and the three-year phase out period ended April 12, 2005, after which any certificates are expired.