Enter the torque, diameter, and friction coefficient into the calculator to determine the clamp load. This calculator helps in understanding the force exerted by a fastener when tightened.
Clamp Load Formula
The following formula is used to calculate the clamp load.
CL = T / (K * D * μ)
Variables:
- CL is the clamp load (kN)
- T is the torque applied to the fastener (Nm)
- D is the nominal diameter of the fastener (mm)
- μ is the friction coefficient between the mating surfaces
- K is a constant (0.2 is commonly used for metric fasteners)
To calculate the clamp load, divide the torque applied to the fastener by the product of the constant (K), the nominal diameter of the fastener (D), and the friction coefficient (μ).
What is Clamp Load?
Clamp load, also known as preload, is the tension generated in a fastener when it is tightened. This load is critical in ensuring that the fastener does not loosen under operational conditions. It is the force that holds together the components being fastened, preventing separation or sliding. The clamp load must be properly calculated to ensure joint integrity without over-tightening, which can lead to fastener or material failure.
How to Calculate Clamp Load?
The following steps outline how to calculate the Clamp Load.
- First, determine the torque applied to the fastener (T) in Newton-meters (Nm).
- Next, determine the nominal diameter of the fastener (D) in millimeters (mm).
- Next, determine the friction coefficient (μ) between the mating surfaces.
- Use the constant K (0.2 for metric fasteners).
- Finally, calculate the Clamp Load (CL) in kilonewtons (kN) using the formula CL = T / (K * D * μ).
- After inserting the variables and calculating the result, check your answer with the calculator above.
Example Problem :
Use the following variables as an example problem to test your knowledge.
torque applied to the fastener (T) = 50 Nm
nominal diameter of the fastener (D) = 10 mm
friction coefficient (μ) = 0.1
