Bolt Preload Relaxation

What is it about?

In-plane loads (side loads) can result in bolt head slip at a macroscopic level and result in loss of preload.

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Why is it important?

This is a new insight into how macroscopic slip at the bolt head can happen, without slip at the joint face. This type of bolt head slip results in a loss of bolt preload and is a precursor to slip between the joint flanges.