BOLTED JOINT Meaning and
Definition
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A bolted joint refers to a mechanical connection formed by inserting a bolt into corresponding holes in two or more components or parts. It is commonly used in engineering and construction applications to securely fasten different elements together.
In a bolted joint, the bolt functions as a threaded fastener and comprises a head, a shank, and external threads. The bolt is inserted through pre-drilled holes in the components, and a nut is screwed onto the exposed end of the bolt, or in some cases, a threaded hole in one of the components receives the bolt directly. This combination of the bolt, nut, and connected components creates a robust connection that holds the parts firmly together.
The strength and effectiveness of a bolted joint depend on various factors, including the level of tightness between the nut and bolt, the torque applied during tightening, the diameter and thread pitch of the bolt, the material properties of the components being joined, and the design of the joint itself. These factors determine the clamping force exerted by the bolt, which is crucial for maintaining the stability and integrity of the joint.
Bolted joints are favored for their flexibility, as they allow disassembly and reassembly without damaging or compromising the connected components. They are commonly utilized in various industries, such as construction, automotive, aerospace, and manufacturing, to assemble structural frames, equipment, machinery, and other systems. The design and implementation of bolted joints require careful consideration of load capacity, stress distribution, corrosion protection, and other factors to ensure optimal performance and safety of the overall structure or assembly.
Etymology of BOLTED JOINT
The word "bolted joint" is composed of two parts: "bolted" and "joint".
The term "bolted" is derived from the word "bolt", which originated from Middle English "bolt" or "bulte". It can be traced back to the Old English word "bola" or "beolt", which referred to an arrow or dart. Over time, "bolt" came to represent a specific type of fastener used to join and secure different components.
The word "joint" is derived from Old French "joint" or "joindre", which means "to join". It ultimately comes from the Latin word "iungere", which has the same meaning. "Joint" refers to the point at which two or more parts are connected or united.
When these two words are combined, "bolted joint" refers to a type of mechanical connection formed by the use of bolts.
