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Ultrasonic bolt tension

I'm interested in this technology. I have a few basic questions that I don't trust a sales engineer to answer. My goal is to test/retighten existing studs with minimal diassembly and modification.

1) What inputs are required and to what accuracy? I can easily provide nominal diameter, length, and ROM tension. 2) Must I measure the bolt in the free state first as a reference to the tensioned values? My goal in the tension measurement is +/- 20%. 3) How finished must the stud ends be to get a good reflection? Will a dovetail connection to several plates along the length of the stud ruin the signal? Do tack welds or locking mechanisms on the nuts affect this?

Thanks to anyone with insight or experience.

Dave

Reply to
David Geesaman
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I have answered some of my own questions. In case anyone cares, I've inserted them below.

No, but I need to know the exact tension in at least one bolt to calibrate the device to the material. This tension would probably be found using a tensioning device or elongation measurement.

Answer: very well finished - to a polish if possible. The problem in my case is the studs are long (100" long, 1.5" dia) and the grain structure can vary from case to case. Both of these issues contribute to difficulty obtaining readable signal reflection.

Reply to
David Geesaman

Sure sounds like it will be easier and much more reliable to just tension them hydraulically and be done with it. A semi-skilled operator can do that easily with quick, accurate, and repeatable results that require no interpretation.

Rick

Reply to
Rick

You need to look very carefully at these devices. The advantages I believe over the Ultra Sonic system is self evident. You may control bolt tension to +/- 5% with these devices and you need no specialist knowledge or equipment with which to do so. I have no connection to this company other than being a very satisfied user-

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Steve.

Reply to
Steve S

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