Analysis of Bolt Bending in Preloaded Bolted Joints

Classical analysis methods are applied to show how flexural deflections due to shear strain in the flange pack produce bending moments and tensile loads on bolts within preloaded bolted joints. It was found that in joints made with long bolts these loads can be significant. The loads can cause yielding of the bolt, reducing bolt preload. The methods presented are adequate to demonstrate the structural integrity of joints made with long bolts or with a small footprint.