Fastener Failure – Part II General Reasons
In “Fastener Failure – Part I” we discussed Hydrogen Embrittlement and why even with the right specs and proper installation, mother nature takes over and science is needed to solve unforeseen issues.
With that said, it is estimated that 95% of all fastener failures are caused by using the wrong fastener or improper installation.
What are the general reasons for fastener failure?
- The wrong fastener for the application it is
being used. The fastener is not strong
enough to withstand the loads.
- The wrong material for the environment
- Loss of Tension during operation
- Joint Relaxation
- Joint Creep
- Thermal Expansion and Contraction
- The Fastener is not property pre-loaded or installed
- Manufacturing Flaws or surface discontinuities exist on the part
- Abuse and misuse
Source: The Fasteners Distributors Magazine, Volume 40 – No. 3 Why Fasteners Fail
The science of the fastener and its application to specific environments is its own field of study and left to the engineers to determine the appropriate fastener and installation procedures.
The real-world application of what the engineers have determined and what we have in our bins and shelves is what most of us need to manage. Our team needs to know what they are using is what is required, both in material and installation practices.
A Hammer next an Air Nail Gun next to a 100,000-ton Press is noticeable, common sense alerts us to additional dangers and each require safety measures that reflect the potential danger to the user and those around the user.
Two bolts, the same size, same color and same configuration do not scream I am different and give us an instant alert that there is danger in using one over the other.
Uniform bin systems, shelving procedures and portable storage drawers in the shop or on trucks in the field can help assure what is required is being used. And the proper installation tools are essential to the proper functioning of fastener once it is installed.
The right fastener in the correct environment will be both a safe product and an ethically pleasing product.
If your team needs assistance with the management of your fasteners to assure proper use and reduce waste that also save time, money and the potential for unexpected and possibly severe consequences, let us share systems that are affordable and user friendly.