Advantages of Tension Control Bolts
Heavy hex bolts, DTIs, and other construction fasteners are more difficult to install than TC bolts. One lot number is all that is needed for the tension control bolt assembly, and the bolts are lubricated to perfection. The AISC, American Institute of Steel Construction, and the RCSC, Research Council on Structural Connections, are responsible for overseeing the industry’s standards.
There is no need for guesswork when it comes to preloading the tension control bolt, as it is placed using a perfectly calibrated shear wrench (tension created in a fastener when it is tightened). When the necessary tension is obtained, the spline of the bolt breaks off the wrench’s connection to the spline.
Many believe that tension control bolts are more cost-effective since they can be installed and inspected by one person. Because of this, the installation process is more efficient and error-free.
Disadvantages of Tension Control Bolts
It is imperative that tension control bolts meet cream deluxe how many balloons the RCSC’s criteria, and any degradation of the lubricant on the bolt will result in an inspection failure. To preserve the lubrication of the bolts, they must be carefully stored on the job site (outside of the reach of the elements). Compared to the water-soluble lubricant on regular bolts, the galvanized ones have more durable lubrication, although they must still be stored correctly. The tension control bolts on your machine can’t be re-lubricated if something happens to them while you’re out in the field. To ensure that the fixes are made and tested again, they must be returned to the manufacturer.
It’s important to keep in mind that while installing these bolts, the installers often forget to tighten them after they’ve already placed them in. Bolts can lose their lubricant in as little as three days if this is done. Avoid putting a tarp over the bolts if they are exposed to the elements. When condensation forms, the lubricant is washed away completely. On the other side, the lubricant evaporates in hot and dry conditions. One must send the bolts back to the manufacturer to have them re-lubricated and retested if they appear salvageable after being exposed to the elements.
Some believe that tension control bolts are more expensive than both heavy hex bolts and DTIs, which is a drawback for some people (direct tension indicators). Besides the more expensive bolt assembly, the shear wrench used to install them costs at least $1700.
