Bolted Joint — Preload Sizing (Skeleton)

Single-file UI + scaled joint drawing + data model + calculation pipeline.

Units & Standard

Imperial (in, lbf)

Unchecked = Metric (mm, N)

Standard Family

Thread Series

Grade / Class

Bolt Size

Bolt Material E (auto from family; override)

Thread Compliance Factor η (0.80–1.00)

Frustum Half-Angle (deg)

Washer bearing diameter rule: if washer used → OD. If no washer → bolt head / nut bearing diameter from table.

Geometry Stack

Head Washer Used?

Head Washer Thickness

Head Washer OD

Head Washer Material

Clamped Members (1–5)

Nut Washer Used?

Nut Washer Thickness

Nut Washer OD

Nut Washer Material

Bolt Shank Length (smooth, within grip)

Threaded length in grip is derived: L_thread = L_grip − L_shank_in_grip

Loads & Tightening Scatter

External Load P

Target Torque T

Torque Applied At

Torque Tolerance (±%)

μ_thread (min)

μ_thread (max)

μ_bearing (min)

μ_bearing (max)

Hole Fit (table-based)

Clearance Hole Dia (override)

Proof Utilization Limit

Clearance hole is now taken from Close/Normal/Loose tables (metric & inch). Custom overrides the table.

Imperial SAE J429 1/2-13

Ready

Drawing is to scale based on your inputs (stack thicknesses & bearing diameters). Threads are shown extending into the members and through the nut (Shigley-style schematic).

Computed Summary

Quantity	Value