Normal bolts vs High strength friction grip bolts

Bolts are one of the most important fasteners used in various industries, including construction, manufacturing, and automotive. They are used to join two or more components together, ensuring their stability and safety. However, not all bolts are created equal. There are different types of bolts available, each with their unique properties and features. Two common types of bolts are normal bolts and high friction grip bolts. In this article, we will explore the difference between normal bolts and high friction grip bolts, their characteristics, and when to use them.

What are normal bolts?
Normal bolts are the most common type of bolt used in various applications. They are typically made of carbon or stainless steel and have a smooth surface finish. Normal bolts have a threaded shank with a head at one end and a nut at the other end. The nut is tightened onto the threaded shank, creating a clamping force that holds the two components together.

Normal bolts are designed to withstand tensile loads, which are loads that pull the components apart. They are not specifically designed to resist shear loads, which are loads that push the components sideways. Normal bolts are also not designed to withstand extreme weather conditions or corrosive environments.

Normal bolts are available in different grades and sizes, depending on their intended application. The most common grades of normal bolts are Grade 2, Grade 5, and Grade 8. Grade 2 bolts are the weakest and are used for low-stress applications. Grade 5 bolts are stronger than Grade 2 bolts and are used for medium-stress applications. Grade 8 bolts are the strongest and are used for high-stress applications.

What are high friction grip bolts?
High friction grip bolts, also known as structural bolts or torque control bolts, are a type of bolt that is designed to withstand both tensile and shear loads. They are used in critical applications where the safety and stability of the components are paramount. High friction grip bolts have a special surface finish that provides a high coefficient of friction between the bolt and the clamped components. This high friction helps to distribute the clamping force evenly across the joint, reducing the risk of slippage or loosening.

High friction grip bolts are made of high-strength steel, typically with a black oxide or galvanized finish. They have a large head that is either hexagonal or circular, and a threaded shank with a pre-installed washer or washer assembly. The washer or washer assembly provides a smooth and even surface for the bolt head to bear against the clamped components, reducing the risk of damage or deformation.

High friction grip bolts are designed to be tightened to a specific torque using a torque wrench. The torque specification is determined by the bolt diameter, grade, and length, as well as the material and thickness of the clamped components. This torque control ensures that the bolt is tightened to the correct level of clamping force, reducing the risk of over-tightening or under-tightening.

What is the difference between normal bolts and high friction grip bolts?
The main difference between normal bolts and high friction grip bolts is their ability to withstand shear loads. Normal bolts are primarily designed to withstand tensile loads, while high friction grip bolts are designed to withstand both tensile and shear loads. High friction grip bolts also have a higher strength than normal bolts, allowing them to withstand higher stresses and loads.

Another significant difference between normal bolts and high friction grip bolts is their surface finish. Normal bolts have a smooth surface finish, while high friction grip bolts have a rough or textured surface finish. This surface finish provides a higher coefficient of friction, allowing the bolt to grip the clamped components more effectively and distribute the clamping force more evenly.

The installation method is another significant difference between normal bolts and high friction grip bolts. Normal bolts are typically tightened using a wrench or socket until they are snug, and then tightened a little more to create the desired clamping force. High friction grip bolts, on the other hand, are tightened to a specific torque using a torque wrench. This torque control ensures that the bolt is tightened to the correct level of clamping force, reducing the risk of over-tightening or under-tightening.

The materials used to make normal bolts and high friction grip bolts also differ. Normal bolts are typically made of carbon or stainless steel, while high friction grip bolts are made of high-strength steel. This high-strength steel allows high friction grip bolts to withstand higher stresses and loads than normal bolts.

Normal bolts and high friction grip bolts also differ in their applications. Normal bolts are suitable for low-stress applications, while high friction grip bolts are used in critical applications where the safety and stability of the components are paramount. High friction grip bolts are commonly used in structural steelwork, bridges, power plants, and other critical applications.

When to use normal bolts and high friction grip bolts?
Normal bolts are suitable for non-critical applications where the loads and stresses are low. They are commonly used in general construction, furniture assembly, and automotive applications. Normal bolts are also suitable for non-corrosive environments where extreme weather conditions are not a concern.

High friction grip bolts are used in critical applications where the loads and stresses are high. They are commonly used in structural steelwork, bridges, power plants, and other critical applications. High friction grip bolts are also suitable for corrosive environments and extreme weather conditions.

When selecting between normal bolts and high friction grip bolts, it is essential to consider the specific application requirements. Factors such as load capacity, shear strength, corrosion resistance, and weather resistance should all be taken into account.

Conclusion
Normal bolts and high friction grip bolts are two common types of bolts used in various industries. Normal bolts are suitable for low-stress applications, while high friction grip bolts are used in critical applications where the safety and stability of the components are paramount. The main difference between normal bolts and high friction grip bolts is their ability to withstand shear loads, their surface finish, and their installation method. When selecting between normal bolts and high friction grip bolts, it is essential to consider the specific application requirements to ensure the safety and stability of the components.