This example illustrates why bolt tensioning safety is crucial to manufacturers.
How Does this Apply to Bolt Tension?
Torque is used to create tension. Bolts are used to affix two components so that they can resist tensile (pulling apart) and shearing (sliding apart) forces. After the nut has been turned onto the bolt, additional torque causes the nut to turn and stretch the bolt.
When the bolt stretches it becomes a solid spring that clamps the components together. As long as the clamp load is not exceeded by the tensile load, the components won’t be pulled apart. Under shear loads, the increased friction prevents relative motion of the components, preventing material failure.
In short, you need the right materials for the right job.
Typically, an under torqued bolt will deform and be unable to provide as much clamping force as needed. An over torqued bolt will break.
Torque wrenches will measure the amount of torque being applied in either analog or digital formats. To function reliably they must be treated with care. Unlike a hammer, or a screwdriver, a torque wrench is a precision instrument and must be handled to avoid costly recalibration.
Whether you’re creating a multi-million-dollar drone, or an everyday item, attention to bolt tension safety is crucial to proper functionality.
Achieving precise results requires a precision tool. Our selection of torque wrenches will allow you to measure and apply the proper torque for the results you need.
If you have questions about why you should torque bolts with more precision, contact us at Ultra Torq.
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