A fastener failure analysis is the detailed examination of how a fastener fails during use. A fastener can fail in several ways, but fatigue and shear are two main categories. Fatigue failures occur when repeated loading causes one or more stress cycles to be added to the total stress cycle count for the bolt. On the other hand, shear failures occur when too much load is applied on either side of an object, causing it to break apart.
Why Perform a Fastener Failure Analysis?
Fasteners are an essential component of many products, and their performance must be evaluated regularly. A fastener failure analysis can help identify any issues with the fasteners and prevent them from causing further damage or problems. By performing failure analysis, you can ensure that your products are safe and reliable.
How Can You Tell If Your Fasteners Are Failing?
There are a variety of ways to tell if your fasteners are failing. One of the most common signs is when a fastener becomes loose and wobble. Loose fasteners can also lead to other problems, such as decreased stability and shorter product life. If you’re experiencing any of these issues, it’s crucial to take action and replace the faulty fasteners.
Preventing and Fixing Potential Issues with Your Fasteners
The following tips will help you analyze fastener failures for your projects:
- Identify all parts that could have caused or contributed to the failure by inspecting for cracks, corrosion, wear marks, improper installation/handling, overloading, and so on.
- Find out a common factor among all failed units, such as age and exposure time to heat and moisture levels.
- Check bolts for proper torque; screws should be tightened until they cannot turn anymore without additional torque applied with another screwdriver
