Torque Wrenches and the Art of Proper Bolt Tightening

Keywords: Bolts, High-Strength BoltsTightening a bolt isn’t about “gut feel.” Under-torquing leads to joint loosening; over-torquing can stretch or break the bolt. Using a torque wrench is crucial, especially for high-strength bolts. These tools ensure the fastener is tightened to the engineer’s specified preload, which is essential for developing the correct clamping force in the joint. Proper torque application is a cornerstone of reliable mechanical assembly.