Combatting Embedment Relaxation in Bolted Joints
Technical White Paper Download
What is Embedment Relaxation?
Embedment relaxation is the gradual loss of bolt preload caused by microscopic flattening of surface roughness, material creep, or local yielding under compressive stress. It occurs at contact points within the joint, including between the bolt head, nut, and joint surface. Rougher surfaces, multiple contact interfaces, and softer materials contribute to greater preload loss.
Bolted joints are essential in many engineering applications, but over time, preload loss due to embedment relaxation can lead to joint failure, leakage, or structural issues. Understanding this phenomenon is crucial for improving reliability in critical industries like aerospace, automotive, and heavy machinery.
This white paper explores the causes of embedment relaxation, its impact on bolted systems, and how Belleville washers can virtually eliminate preload loss by increasing system elasticity.
Key Takeaways:
- What embedment relaxation is and why it occurs.
- How it affects joint integrity, fatigue resistance, and leak prevention.
- The factors that influence embedment relaxation, such as surface finish, material properties, and interface quantity.
- Why Belleville washers are the optimal solution for preventing preload loss.
By increasing the elasticity of the bolting system, Belleville washers minimize preload loss, ensuring long-term stability. By incorporating the right Belleville washer, you can reduce preload loss to less than 1%, preserving the integrity of critical bolted connections.
Download the technical white paper, Combatting Embedment Relaxation in Bolted Joints, to gain expert insights into how Solon's Belleville Washers preserve bolt preload, enhance system stability, and ensure the long-term integrity of your critical bolted joints.
Learn more about the use of Belleville springs & washers in bolting applications:
Calculator: Infinte Bolt Fatigue Life Calculator
Application: General Purpose Bolting
Application: Commercial Bolting Applications
Technical White Paper: Using Belleville Springs to Maintain Bolt Preload
Technical White Paper: Why Bolts Work (and why some don't)
Technical White Paper: Why Increased Elasticity Leads to Reduced Self-Loosening
Video: Solon Belleville Spring Washers
Other Product Selection Tools:
Application Specific Calculators