The ASM Desk Edition has some articles on Stress Relaxation.
It reports relevant ASTM tests. Although the temperature looks low, maybe some tests should be performed to determine if there is a problem in the specific application.
No need for tests, the problem is clear. Too many layers of soft crap in the joint. I need some strong citable references to bolster my attempts to convince a client that soft "locking tab" washers are detrimental to joint performance.
Cory,
Thanks. I have VDI 2230 on my desk, it's on my list of things to read and understand one of these days. The parts on embedment and relaxation proved interesting to my immediate crisis.
I have an earlier edition of Bickford's Introduction to ...Bolted Joints. Is there anything in the Bickford and Nasser book that is not in that?
In metal-to-metal joints, the relaxation is in the order of 2% per year. In composites, its an exponential decay, with about 40% relaxation the first year. The data is in an ASTM STP. If you desire, I can find the reference and post here.
Sorry for the delay in answering your question. Handbook of Bolts and Bolted Joints does not have significant additional information regarding relaxation when compared to An Introduction to the Design and Behavior of Bolted Joints. There are some small items, but they are related to VDI 2230, so you are covered there.
Regards,
Cory
Please see FAQ731-376 for tips on how to make the best use of Eng-Tips Fora.