What the Calculator Covers
This calculator assesses steel bolts loaded in axial tension. It uses the bolt grade, diameter, tensile stress area, k2 factor, and number of bolts to compare the applied force with the available tensile resistance.
Typical Inputs
Common inputs include the applied tensile force, number of bolts, bolt diameter, bolt grade or ultimate strength, tensile stress area, k2 factor, and the partial factor used for bolt resistance.
EN 1993 Steel Connection Context
Bolt tension is one part of the EN 1993 connection design. Shear, bearing, punching, prying, spacing, edge distance, plate bending and combined actions may also control the final arrangement.
Tensile Stress Area and k2 Factor
Bolt tension resistance depends on the selected tensile stress area and the k2 factor used by the design basis. The input values should match the selected bolt type, grade, and connection detail.
Result Review
The engineering tool reports resistance, utilization, and pass/fail status so the bolt tension check can be reviewed clearly. The output is for preliminary engineering review and should not replace a full connection design by a qualified engineer.
Practical Use
Use this calculator to compare an applied tensile force with the resistance of the selected steel bolt. It does not include every effect that may occur in the complete connection.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a bolt tension check?
A bolt tension check reviews whether a bolt has enough tensile resistance for the applied axial tensile force in a connection.
What inputs are usually needed for bolt tension resistance?
Typical inputs include bolt diameter, bolt grade or ultimate strength, tensile stress area, number of bolts, applied tension, k2 factor, and the relevant partial factor.
Does bolt tension need to be checked with shear?
Sometimes yes. If a bolt is loaded in both shear and tension, the combined action should be reviewed according to the project design basis and connection detail.
Is bolt tension the only check needed for a steel connection?
No. Bolt tension is only one component check. Shear, bearing, punching, prying effects, plate bending, spacing, edge distance, and the full load path may also need to be reviewed.
Engineering content is prepared and maintained by VitraLab Engineering. Worked examples show how the current calculator treats a defined case; they do not replace project-specific verification.