Friday 15th Mar 2024
In the process of mechanical assemblies, the significance of
fastener torque and tightness specifications cannot be underestimated. We know
the critical role these factors play in ensuring the safety, reliability, and
longevity of your projects.
Therefore, within this news article we uncover the essential
principles around fastener tightness and torque specifications. From the
consequences of inadequate tightening to the advised techniques for achieving
optimal fastener tightening and torque specification in this crucial aspect of
engineering.
What does it mean to me?
As your fasteners are what holds the components together,
they need to be tightened to the correct level of torque and tension to provide
the required clamping force to hold the parts in place. When it comes to fastener
tightening, it’s not as simple as "righty tighty, lefty loosey”. This can
directly influence the mechanical performance of the assembly and the safety of
the operator or end-user.
Advantages
The benefits of torque tightening are that it allows you to
control and evenly distribute torque to all components so that they’re
stretched properly, can carry their load and aren’t over-tightened.
By following precise calculations and using calibrated
torque wrenches, you have peace of mind that they are tight, and the load is
even.
Disadvantages
The disadvantages of not following torque tightening
techniques, is that you risk under or over-tightening. If your torque pattern
doesn’t apply load evenly through the process, you will have poor sealing,
which can result in leaking flanges.
One of the most common issues is a fastener being too loose because
this can have severe consequences, leading to vibrations and movement of the
parts, which can ultimately result in damage or failure.
What can I do?
To achieve the correct level of tightening, there are some
common techniques that you can use. These include:
- · Torque Wrench - This includes using a
tool to apply a specific amount of torque to the fastener which comes in
different types and sizes.
- ·
Static Torque – This is a torque that
does not produce an angular acceleration, it measures the force required to
start an object's rotation for example a door opening and closing.
- ·
Dynamic Torque – This measures the force needed
to keep the object rotating at a constant rate. It is an essential factor in
designing and operating many mechanical systems, including engines and turbines.
- ·
Angle Tightening - This involves
tightening the fastener to a specific angle after achieving the initial torque
setting. This technique is often used in applications where a precise level of
clamping force is required, such as engine components.
Therefore, when you are tightening a threaded fastener a
significant amount of torque is needed to overcome friction in the threads and
under the nut face. So, with the correct fasteners, and the suitable techniques
in place, you can achieve the correct outcome that is safe and secure.
Final Thoughts
As fastener manufacturers for many years now, we know the
importance of fastener tightness and torque specifications within mechanical assemblies.
From this news article you will have understood that insufficient tightening
can lead to damaging consequences, including expensive repairs and injury to
life. Hence, employing appropriate methods such as torque wrenches through to
angle tightening is crucial to attain the optimal level of tightness.
We take pride in the work that we do, and as we provide our
clients with the highest quality parts, we want to make sure you have the right
information and tools to achieve the perfect end result.
If you have any further questions or have an upcoming
project that you would like our help with, then speak to our team today. We
offer a wide range of fasteners and
components produced to standard specification or bespoke drawings. See how
we can help you and contact us here.