1. What Is Mechanical Clamp Load?

Mechanical clamp load refers to the force exerted by a fastener when tightened to a specific torque. It's a critical measurement in engineering and manufacturing to ensure proper joint integrity and prevent failures.

2. How Does The Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the clamp load formula:

Where:

• \( F \) — Clamp load (lb)
• \( T \) — Torque applied (lb-in)
• \( K \) — Torque coefficient (dimensionless)
• \( D \) — Diameter of fastener (in)

Explanation: This formula calculates the axial force generated in a bolted joint when a specific torque is applied, accounting for friction and geometric factors through the torque coefficient.

3. Importance Of Clamp Load Calculation

Details: Accurate clamp load calculation is essential for proper joint design, preventing bolt fatigue, avoiding loosening under vibration, and ensuring adequate sealing pressure in gasketed joints.

4. Using The Calculator

Tips: Enter torque in pound-inches, torque coefficient as a decimal value, and diameter in inches. All values must be positive numbers greater than zero.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What is a typical torque coefficient value?
A: For standard unlubricated steel fasteners, K typically ranges from 0.15 to 0.25. Lubricated fasteners may have values as low as 0.10.

Q2: Why does diameter affect clamp load?
A: Larger diameters require more torque to achieve the same clamp load because the force is applied at a greater distance from the center of rotation.

Q3: How accurate is this calculation?
A: The calculation provides a theoretical value. Actual clamp load can vary due to factors like surface finish, lubrication, and thread condition.

Q4: Can this formula be used for metric units?
A: Yes, but all inputs must be in consistent units (e.g., N·m for torque, mm for diameter, resulting in N for clamp load).

Q5: What affects the torque coefficient?
A: The coefficient depends on thread pitch, friction between threads, friction under the bolt head/nut, and lubrication condition.