Change in timber bolt clamping force over time?
Change in timber bolt clamping force over time?
(OP)
I am trying to find any information on whether the clamping force (actual tension in the bolt) will change over time in a timber connection and if so by how much. I suspect that factors such as moisture gain or loss, addition and removal of load, and temperature change may cause the clamping force to vary over the life of a connection. My internet search thus far has turned up nothing in regards to this subject. Does anyone have any information on this topic or ideas of where to direct my search?
Thanks in advance.
Thanks in advance.






RE: Change in timber bolt clamping force over time?
RE: Change in timber bolt clamping force over time?
Mike McCann
McCann Engineering
RE: Change in timber bolt clamping force over time?
I'm curious about your application because I don't know how much tension you could develop in a bolt in a typical wood connection. For example if you bolt two glulam beams together, at some point you will start crushing the wood, which I think would limit the amount of tension you could develop in the bolt.
RE: Change in timber bolt clamping force over time?
RE: Change in timber bolt clamping force over time?
Stress laminated bridge decks rely on transverse tension rods at regular spacing to keep all the members acting as a unit. Periodic retensioning is required.
On another note, would spike grids help increase the shear capacity in your application?