Clamp Force Accuracy in Threaded Fastener Joints Using Different Torque Control Tightening Strategies 2021-01-5073

The assembly of threaded fasteners may seem straightforward. However, there are many factors to consider to achieve quality tightened joints, including the joint material, threaded fastener, and coatings. Additionally, there are many assembly tool types and torque application strategies to choose from. This investigation studies the tightening speed dynamics when using torque as a control method. The clamp force obtained in the joint changes when tightening at high speed or when the speed varies greatly during tightening. This type of tightening is called highly dynamic. Highly dynamic torque control tightening strategies are studied, such as impact, pulse, and inertia-controlled methods, and compared with the continuous drive strategy, which is a standard dynamic torque tightening method. The clamp force and its scatter caused by the torque accuracy in the assembly tool type are investigated for the abovementioned torque application strategies. The study also focuses on the different results obtained from the International Organization for Standardization’s (ISO) 16047:2005 (Fasteners-Torque/clamp force testing) standard compared to a production-like setup.