Individuals in charge of fastening projects would be prudent to take preventative precautions in order to avoid bolt failures from occurring. It is not a simple process to assess whether or not a bolt is capable of withstanding the pressure that is given to it, but there are many elements that must be taken into account before the application starts.
Infrequently, bolt failures do occur. Let's investigate the scope of the issue:
Excess stress on bolts
Overstressing is the most prevalent cause of bolt failure. In order for your bolts to function at full capacity for an extended period of time, they must be able to resist the appropriate amount of stress without having to withstand an excess amount.
Bolt corrosion
As bolts are exposed to incompatible substances such as oxygen, metal products, and even naturally combining compounds, the danger of corrosion increases. Bolts used to attach car components are susceptible to deterioration due to exposure to fluid and engine leaks. Corrosion also occurs in structural, building, and mechanical applications.
Exposure to hydrogen
It is difficult to overcome the brittleness of bolt metal when exposed to atomic hydrogen. There are, however, a few things that may be done in order to avoid this. Embrittlement from hydrogen may occur as a consequence of overstressing, and blisters can develop on the fabric of the bolt. As a result, you must ensure that the bolt is not subjected to excessive tension. If this is not addressed, the bolt will decay considerably more quickly than its predicted lifespan value.
Bolt fatigue
Over time, bolts lose their effectiveness. As with excessive stress, the application of internal and external forces are variables that affect the failure or strength of a bolt; they may be generally predicted based on the number of load-preload cycles the bolt undergoes. Due to fatigue, bolts must be changed every couple of years. This is particularly important when working with projects where stress levels are consistently high.
Bolt thread issues
As the pairing of two threads happens during the tightening of a bolt, shear stress is imparted to the threaded portion of the bolt. Thread stripping is always a possibility, when the section shears due to excessive tension. To prevent joint failure caused by this phenomenon, you must estimate the likelihood and extent of damage well in advance of utilising the bolt and take precautions to ensure that the threading is used appropriately.
Avlock International is a leading manufacturer and distributor of specialized fastening systems. Contact us today on 011 748 7000 or query@avlock.co.za