A bolt failure analysis is a critical step in understanding why a bolt has failed. By examining the various factors that led to the failure, you can prevent it from happening again. There are multiple reasons why bolts may fail, including design flaws, errors in manufacturing or installation, and exposure to extreme conditions. Furthermore, when a bolt fails, it can result in serious safety hazards and expensive repairs. To prevent bolt failures, it is essential to understand the factors that can lead to them.
Why Bolts Fail
When bolts fail, it is usually due to one of two reasons: corrosion or physical damage. Physical damage can come in many forms and is often difficult for an inspector to identify. This includes impacts that cause cracks or bends that weaken the bolt’s structure or extreme temperatures that cause shrinking and expanding, which could loosen the threads on a bolt. On the other hand, corrosion has different effects depending on whether it affects just the surface layer, called “passive corrosion,” or penetrates deep into the metal, causing weakening called “active corrosion.” Knowledge of the causes of bolt failures allows precise fixing of the bolts and avert an impending catastrophe.
How to Use Bolt Failure Analysis to Prevent Bolt Failure
Bolt failure analysis allows the inspection of bolts for any signs of damage, fatigue, corrosion, or cracking. When you inspect the bolt for these problems, it will enable you to make an educated decision on whether or not the bolt can be reused or needs replacement. If there are no signs of problems with the bolt, then it should be re-tightened, and if there are any visible signs that indicate a problem, then replacement may need to occur.
