Fastener Clamp Load
posted 23rd January 2023
Clamp load is an important aspect of engineering and construction, as it determines the amount of force that is applied to a fastener to hold two or more objects together. The clamp load is measured in units of force such as pounds or newtons, and it is crucial to be aware of the clamp load requirements of a specific application to ensure that the chosen fastener can withstand the required load.
Clamp load is used in a wide range of applications, from construction and manufacturing to automotive and aerospace engineering. In construction, for example, bolts and screws are used to hold together the pieces of a building or bridge. The clamp load of these fasteners must be sufficient to keep the structure stable and secure, especially in the event of external forces such as wind or earthquakes. In the manufacturing industry, clamp load is used to hold together the pieces of a machine or product, ensuring that they are properly assembled and will function correctly.
The clamp load of a fastener is determined by several factors, including the size, material, and thread pitch of the fastener. Larger fasteners are able to withstand more clamp load than smaller fasteners, and stronger materials such as steel can withstand more clamp load than weaker materials such as plastic. The thread pitch, or distance between threads, also plays a role in determining the clamp load of a fastener. Fine thread fasteners have a higher clamp load capacity than coarse thread fasteners of the same size and material.
Another important factor to consider when assessing fastener clamp load is the coefficient of friction. This coefficient describes the amount of resistance a surface exerts on an object trying to move across it. Therefore, the coefficient of friction can affect the clamp load in a fastener as it will affect the amount of force required to move the objects that the fastener is holding together.
It is important to select the appropriate fastener for the specific application and to be aware of the clamp load requirements. For example, using a fastener with a lower clamp load than is required can result in the fastener becoming loose or even failing, causing the objects it is holding together to separate. On the other hand, using a fastener with a higher clamp load than is required can result in damage to the threads or even cracking of the objects being held together. Therefore, it is important to consult with a fastener expert or to use a fastener selection guide to ensure that the proper fastener is chosen for the specific application.
In summary, fastener clamp load is an important measure of the amount of force applied to a fastener to hold two or more objects together. It is crucial to be aware of the clamp load requirements of a specific application and to select the appropriate fastener to ensure that it can withstand the required load. Factors such as the size, material, and thread pitch of the fastener, as well as the coefficient of friction, all play a role in determining the clamp load of a fastener. Consulting with Trojan Special Fasteners Ltd or using a fastener selection guide can help to ensure that the proper fastener is chosen for the specific application.