Fastener Failure Analysis: Common Modes and How to Avoid Them

Keywords: Fastener failure, bolt breakage, corrosion

Understanding why fasteners fail is key to preventing it. Common failure modes include tensile overload (breaking), shear failure, fatigue cracking from cyclic stress, and corrosion-induced weakening. For instance, improper torque can lead to stress concentrations. Galvanic corrosion can occur when dissimilar metals are in contact in a corrosive electrolyte. Regular inspection, proper material selection (like using high-strength bolts where needed), and correct installation are the best defenses against premature fastener failure.