(Last Updated On: August 2, 2023)

In this article, TorcStark will introduce in detail what is a controlled bolt. Including its definition, advantages, applications, etc.

I. Definition

Controlled bolting is an engineering term that refers to the use of precise torque control or tension control technology during bolt tightening to ensure that a bolt or nut achieves a specific predetermined tightening force or tension. This method is widely used in various engineering fields, especially when assembling large-scale mechanical equipment, structures, and structures, to ensure the accuracy and reliability of fastened components.

In controlled bolting, specific tools, such as electric torque wrenches, hydraulic wrenches, or hydraulic bolt tensioners, are used to control the torque or tension applied to the bolt. These tools are often equipped with torque sensors or tension sensors that measure the applied torque or tension and automatically stop or signal when a preset value is reached.

II.Comparison of Controlled Bolting and traditional fastening methods

Compared with controlled bolting, the traditional method of fastening bolts has great limitations, mainly including the following points:

  1. Inaccurate torque control: It is difficult to achieve precise torque control by manually tightening bolts, and operators often rely on experience and feeling to judge the magnitude of torque. This can lead to over- or under-torque, affecting the stability and reliability of the bolt fastening.
  2. Manpower dependence: Traditional manual fastening methods rely on the physical strength and skills of the operator, especially when fastening large or high-strength bolts, more manpower and time are required. This may increase production costs and reduce work efficiency.
  3. Not suitable for high-strength applications: In some high-strength application scenarios, bolts need to be tightened to very high torque values, and manual tightening often cannot meet this demand. In these cases, more advanced control of the tightening tool is required to ensure accurate torque output.
  4. Training and experience are required: Manual tightening of bolts requires the operator to have certain training and experience, especially in scenarios where torque control is required. Operators need to understand the fastening requirements of different bolts and nuts, and master the correct fastening method, otherwise, quality problems caused by improper operation may occur.
  5. Potential safety hazards: Manual tightening of bolts may have potential safety hazards caused by excessive force or misoperation, such as loose bolts or slipping nuts. These potential safety hazards may affect the stability of equipment or structures and even lead to accidents.

Controlled bolting has great advantages over traditional bolt fastening methods. The traditional manual bolt-tightening method has limitations in accuracy, efficiency, and safety, which have been greatly improved by controlled bolting.

Many fields of engineering have turned to more advanced controlled bolting tools, such as electric torque wrenches and hydraulic bolt tensioners, to improve the precision and reliability of fastening operations.

These advanced tools can effectively meet the fastening needs of different application scenarios and improve the efficiency and safety of fastening operations.

III. Application of Controlled Bolting in the Engineering Field

Controlled bolting can be used in a variety of engineering fields, including large-scale machinery and equipment assembly, structure and bridge construction, oil and gas pipeline connections, wind and solar energy equipment assembly, and more.

Equipment in these areas often requires extensive bolting. High-strength bolts are frequently used, and each bolt needs to achieve precise torque requirements and ensure safety equipment assembly is usually a complex and time-consuming task. It is also necessary to record the corresponding data for later bolt maintenance.

Controlled Bolting brings precision, efficiency, and safety to fastening operations in assembly. In these applications, bolt tightening is one of the critical steps. By using advanced controlled bolting tools, the quality of bolt fastening can be ensured, and the stable operation and long-term use of equipment can be guaranteed.

IV. Advantages of Controlled Bolting

The advantages of controlled bolting mainly include the following points:

  1. Ensure the accuracy of bolt tightening force: By precisely controlling the torque or tension, it is possible to ensure that the bolts are tightened to the required accurate torque or tension, avoiding problems caused by excessive or insufficient tightening.
  2. Improve the reliability of fastened parts: Correct fastening force can ensure the reliability and stability of the connection, and prevent the bolt from loosening or connection failure.
  3. Reduce damage to parts: Tightening may cause damage to parts, and controlled bolting can reduce this risk and prolong the life of parts.
  4. Improve work efficiency: Using controlled bolting tools can quickly complete fastening tasks, improving production efficiency and construction speed.
  5. Improve safety: Through precise control of fastening force, the risk of accidents caused by improper fastening is reduced, and the safety of the workplace is guaranteed.

V. Conclusion

Controlled bolting is one of the main methods of future equipment assembly. Its high efficiency, high quality, and high safety cannot be realized by traditional bolt-fastening methods. When artificial intelligence is applied to controlled bolting tools, everything will become simpler and more direct.