Friction vs Tension: Debunking the Myth of High Strength Bolts

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Friction vs Tension: Debunking the Myth of High Strength Bolts.

Q1: What is the myth of high strength bolts?

A1: The myth is that high strength bolts can be tightened to a high torque, resulting in high clamping forces and ultimately, high joint strengths.

Q2: What is the truth about high strength bolts?

A2: The truth is that high strength bolts rely on the elastic deformation of the bolt and joint materials to generate clamping forces. Tightening a bolt to a high torque can result in overloading the bolt and joint materials, reducing the joint strength.

Q3: What is the role of friction in bolted joints?

A3: Friction is the force that resists relative motion between two surfaces in contact. In a bolted joint, friction prevents the bolt from rotating and losing its clamping force.

Q4: What is the role of tension in bolted joints?

A4: Tension is the force that stretches the bolt and generates the clamping force. The greater the tension, the greater the clamping force.

Q5: How should high strength bolts be tightened to ensure joint strength?

A5: High strength bolts should be tightened to a specific tension, not torque. The tension should be based on the joint materials, bolt diameter, and desired joint strength.

Q6: How can friction be minimized in a bolted joint?

A6: Friction can be minimized by lubricating the threaded and bearing surfaces with a proper lubricant. However, the lubricant should be compatible with the joint materials and not degrade over time.

Q7: What are the advantages of tension control bolts?

A7: Tension control bolts have a built-in mechanism that measures and controls the bolt tension during tightening. This ensures that the bolt is tightened to the desired tension, minimizing the risk of overload and joint failure.

Q8: How can joint failure be prevented?

A8: Joint failure can be prevented by using proper bolt and joint materials, tightening to the correct tension, minimizing friction, and ensuring that the joint is designed and loaded properly.

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For more information, please visit Are High Strength Bolts Designed for Friction?.