Test Services

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Bolt Science can perform a range of tests on fasteners and bolted joints to assist organisations in problem resolution, our test capabilities include:

Torque-Tension Tests Determination of the torque-tension relationship for a threaded fastener allowing the appropriate tightening torque to be determined. Such tests will allow the nut factor (sometimes referred to as the torque coefficient or k factor) to be determined. and the overall coefficient of friction. By completing several similar tests, the variation in the torque-tension relationship, due to friction variation, can be established for an application.
Friction Determination Tests Test fasteners can be mounted in a test rig to allow the thread and head friction torques to be determined. From these results the thread and nut face friction coefficients can be determined. These values are of importance to allow an assessment of what effect various joint surfaces can have on the bolt torque-preload relationship. Such tests can be completed, for example, to assess the effect the introduction of new fastener finishes will have on a joint's performance.
Torque/Preload to Failure Tests Tests can be performed by tightening the fastener to failure. This can be completed on actual assemblies and/or test fixtures to allow torque-angle-force characteristics to be established. From this information torque-angle tightening specifications can be derived allowing accurate controlled tightening to be completed. Such tests can also be used to determine what is the maximum preload that an assembly will sustain.
Torque to Yield Tests Tests can be performed on actual assemblies to obtain torque-angle graphs that can be used to establish the torque to reach the yield strength of the bolt. Such graphs can be used to establish the appropriate torque-angle specification. They can also be used, with analysis software such as our BOLTCALC program, to assist in assessing the structural integrity of an assembly. The advantage of measuring the applied torque and angle of rotation of the fastener, is that tests on the actual joint can be completed without having to change the joint stiffness by introducing a load cell.
Vibration Loosening Characteristics of Fasteners Fasteners coming loose is a common problem across many industries. We can complete an assessment of a fastener’s self loosening characteristics using a transverse vibration test machine (often referred to as a Junker machine). The fastener preload decay graphs produced can allow an assessment to be made of a fastener’s resistance to self-loosening. Click Here to View a Video on the Junker Test

A brochure detailing the test and consultancy services that we can supply is available in Adobe pdf format that can be viewed by clicking on the image at the side.

If you think that we could possibly be of assistance to you with our test services, please contact us.