Florian Buder
Bolting Design/Installation errors
Updated: Jun 20, 2022
Various problems are common in the industry, such as forgotten difficult-to-access bolts, rusted/corroded fasteners, improper tension and torque, improper washers, bolt grade or size and custom modifications such as a bunch of small shims. Some of the issues can be attributed to design errors, some to lack of asset information provided, some to installation errors, lack of training and proper tools or culture of installation and maintenance excellence.
Here are a few of the typical design and installation errors to avoid:
Thin flat washers or washers with over-sized inside diameters
Bolts and nuts installed in oversize holes with improper flat washers or no washers
Missing and Broken fasteners
Inadequate quantity of anchor and/or hold-down bolts
Wrong grade of the bolt and/or nut
Improper design to allow for bolt āfree stretch.ā
Improper bolt/nut/washer design to prevent self-loosening
Wrong design of attachment points for bolts
Poorly designed flexible machine and bearing frame assemblies
Improper size/length/installation foundation anchor bolts
Recommendations:
Avoid using more than four shims.
Shims and slots need to have the right sizes.
Use appropriate washers.
Identify target values if not provided by OEM.
Select the appropriate torque tool and bolting method.
Apply repeatable and accurate torque values to assure precise results.
Use the Flange Torque or Cross Torque Pattern Method to ensure even distribution.
Applying the right torque with an adequate tool is one of the many required steps to optimize the results!
Document bolting activities and patterns with state-of-the-art technology