Bolt Tightening Techniques

• When slip resistant connections are not required, high strength bolts are tightened to a ‘snug-tight’ using an ordinary spud wrench.
• When slip resistant connections are desired with HDFC bolts, three methods are used:
> Turn-of-the-nut tightening (part-turn method) -Cheap, more reliable, and common method.
> Direct tension indicator tightening,
> Calibrated wrench tightening (torque control method).

Advantages of Bolted connections

• Bolted connections offer the following advantages over riveted or welded connections:

• Use of unskilled labour and simple tools
• Noiseless and quick fabrication
• No special equipment/process needed for installation
• Fast progress of work
• Accommodates minor discrepancies in dimensions
• The connection supports loads as soon as the bolts are tightened (in welds and rivets, cooling period is involved).

• Main drawback of black bolt is the slip of the joint when subjected to loading

Advantages of HSFG Bolts

• HSFG bolts do not allow any slip between the elements connected, especially in close tolerance holes, Thus they provide rigid connections.
• Because of the clamping action, load is transmitted by friction only and the bolts are not subjected to shear and bearing.
• Due to the smaller number of bolts, the gusset plate sizes are reduced.
• Deformation is minimized.
• Holes larger than usual can be provided to ease erection and take care of lack-of-fit. However note that the type of hole will govern the strength of the connection.
• Noiseless fabrication, since the bolts are tightened with wrenches.
• The possibility of failure at the net section under the working loads is eliminated.

• Since the loads causing fatigue will be within proof load, the nuts are prevented from loosening and the fatigue strength of the joint will be greater than in welded/connections.
• Since the load is transferred by friction, there is no stress concentration in the holes.
• Unlike riveted joints, few persons are required for making the connections.
• No heating is required and no danger of tossing of bolt. Thus safety of the workers is enhanced.
• Alterations, if any (e.g. replacement of defective bolt) is done easily than in welded connections.