Selection and analysis

Design The selection of the required fastener diameter and property class relies upon a precise knowledge of all loads that might occur, and is thus dependent on the specific application. It is necessary here to distinguish between connections formed using a clearance hole (bolts) and internally threaded holes (screws). When designing through-bolted connections, the nominal length of the bolt is given by the sum of the clamping length (lk) and the bolt end protrusion (v) (as in DIN 78 Bolt end protrusions). Compliance with the specified bolt end protrusions is of particular importance for a secure connection.

There are, however, a few generally applicable guidelines that can be followed with regard to the length of the fastener. The most important factor is that sufficient load-bearing turns of the thread are engaged to be able to withstand all forces that may occur.

lk: clamping length v: bolt end protrusion l: nominal length of the bolt Hexagon head bolt with hexagon nut Hexagon head bolt with lock nut Choosing an appropriate nut is very straightforward provided the property class of the bolt is known (a bolt of property class 8.8 must be paired with a nut of property class 8 or higher). By contrast, the required length of engagement (le) for an internally threaded connection is a function of the material strength of the part into which the internal thread is tapped.

le: length of engagement d: screw diameter lg: useful thread

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