1. What is a Load on Each Bolt Calculator?

Definition: This calculator determines the load borne by each bolt in a bolted joint based on stress, contact area, and number of bolts.

Purpose: It helps engineers and designers ensure proper bolt sizing and joint integrity in structural connections.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the formula:

Where:

• \( P_{bolt} \) — Load on each bolt (Newtons)
• \( f_c \) — Stress in bearing plate and concrete foundation (N/mm²)
• \( A \) — Area of contact in bearing plate and foundation (mm²)
• \( n \) — Number of bolts

Explanation: The total load is distributed equally among all bolts in the joint.

3. Importance of Bolt Load Calculation

Details: Proper bolt load calculation ensures structural integrity, prevents overloading, and helps select appropriate bolt sizes and materials.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter the stress value, contact area, and number of bolts. All values must be > 0. The ±5% indicates the typical tolerance range.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: Why is the load distribution equal among bolts?
A: This assumes ideal conditions with perfect alignment and identical bolt stiffness. In practice, loads may vary slightly.

Q2: What affects the stress in the bearing plate?
A: Material properties, plate thickness, bolt preload, and external forces all influence the stress.

Q3: When would the load not be equally distributed?
A: With non-symmetric joint configurations, different bolt stiffnesses, or when some bolts loosen.

Q4: How do I determine the contact area?
A: Typically the smaller of the bolt head bearing area or the plate's effective stress area.

Q5: Should I include a safety factor?
A: Yes, always apply appropriate safety factors to the calculated load based on application requirements.

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