Articles 

Clamp-Load Scatter

2011-02-23

When a threaded fastener is tightened to a specific torque, clamp-load or pre-load is generated. The fastener elongates and the jointed members undergo compression, as shown in Figure 1. This clamp-load is a term often used to express the force generated by the fastener onto the jointed members. It is this force that holds the joint together and allows the part or assembly to function as it was designed. Creating the clamp-load consistently is not that straight forward however.