Novel Formulation of Bolt Elastic Interaction in Gasketed Joints

Abstract

Novel formulation was proposed for studying bolt elastic interaction during the tightening of a group of fasteners in flat faced gasketed joints. The model was used for developing tightening strategies that would achieve a more uniform clamp load in the flange at initial assembly. Clamp load distribution is investigated for various tightening sequences and values for the gasket modulus of elasticity, gasket thickness, and grip length. An experimental setup and test procedure were developed to verify the numerical results produced by the elastic interaction model. Analytical and experimental results were presented and discussed.