Areas of Engineering
McCoy Bolt developed and patented a torque-tension, torque-angle, machine with computer graphic analysis that measures clamp load on a specific u-bolt for various torque/angle values. Strain gauges are applied to each leg of the u-bolt, which is assembled on either a simulated or actual axle assembly. Variable torque runners then tighten the bolts at torque levels ranging from one to 600 foot-pounds. The output from the strain gauges are then recorded in a computer which then prints a graph showing the actual clamp load for each torque / angle setting.
This testing capability can be a particularly useful tool for:
- Determining target torque values for new joints
- Solving assembly plant problems such as breaking bolts during assembly, joints failing torque audits, etc.
- Weak link evaluations, to determine which part of a joint will fail when the bolt has been over tightened