Bolt Calculation and Design
We calculate and dimension bolted connections in compliance with standards and load requirements – individually tailored to your technical specifications.
Binding Evaluations of Your Components
Analyze bolted connections. Secure strength systematically.
A strength verification of bolted connections is crucial for the safe design of mechanical structures – for example in mechanical engineering, automotive engineering, or steel construction. Bolts are often subjected to combined loads such as tension, shear, and, if applicable, bending – frequently under dynamic conditions.
The calculation is performed taking into account geometry, preload, friction, load collectives, and material properties – in accordance with applicable standards such as VDI 2230 or DIN EN 1993. The goal is to verify the load-bearing capacity, identify critical bolted connections, and avoid over-dimensioning.
Our Range of Services
static strength verifications - load and standard compliant
With static strength verifications, we evaluate the load-bearing capacity of your components reliably and in compliance with standards. Based on FEA analyses, you can identify weak points or optimization potential early on and ensure compliance with relevant guidelines – efficiently and precisely.
Static Strength Verification
A static strength verification checks whether a component can withstand the intended loads safely and permanently.
Fatigue Strength Assessment
Fatigue describes the gradual failure of components under repeated, cyclic loading.
Weld seam calculation
Load-appropriate design of weld seams for static and cyclic loading.
Bolt calculations are essential when...
Your safety – our responsibility
bolted connections are located in highly stressed areas – such as in the load path – and must be evaluated as potential weak points.
load-bearing bolted connections are subjected to dynamic or cyclic stress and a verification of fatigue strength is required.
elevated temperatures occur and the clamped elements expand differently than the bolt.
damage has already occurred during operation and must now be prevented through structural optimization.
the bolted connection is safety-critical and failure could lead to personal injury or system failures.
Advantages of Bolt Calculations
Measurable benefit. Verifiable quality.
Our bolt calculations are based on current standards such as VDI 2230 and take into account all relevant influences – from preload force and temperature to the load collective. For bolted connections you can rely on.
Prevention of Bolt Failure
With the help of a sound bolt calculation, it can be ensured that the connection withstands the actual operating loads. In this way, failure risks can be identified early and people as well as property can be effectively protected.
Reliable Design
We determine the required dimensions and preload forces for your bolts – taking into account standards, loads, and boundary conditions.
Efficient Bolt Design
An optimized design makes it possible to create bolted connections that are slimmer, lighter, or use fewer components – without compromising on safety.
Our Expertise for Your Project
We look forward to your inquiry!
As a specialized engineering firm for FEA calculations, we offer you sound technical support in the design, optimization, and evaluation of bolted connections. Whether static, dynamic, or thermally influenced loads – we verify whether your connection will permanently withstand the requirements.
Do you have questions, need an assessment, or want to start right away?
We look forward to your message – by phone, email, or in person.
Your contact: Jonas Compart
elbcore engineers GmbH
Lerchenstraße 28a
22767 Hamburg
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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Quick answers. Clear solutions.
Here you will find answers to the most common questions regarding our services.
Which standards apply to bolt calculation?
For the verification of bolted connections, VDI 2230 – particularly Part 1 – is the authoritative guideline. It describes a detailed calculation procedure for determining bolt forces, preload, and safety, in both static and dynamic ranges. In structural engineering applications, especially in steel construction, DIN EN 1993 (Eurocode 3) may also be relevant, as it specifies design rules for bolted connections within the framework of structural planning.
Can bolted connections be reliably represented in an FEA simulation?
Yes, FEA simulations are very well suited for analyzing bolted connections realistically – especially with complex geometries or when local stress distributions need to be considered. In practice, we often combine numerical simulations with analytical calculations according to VDI 2230 to achieve resilient and traceable results.
What information do you need to perform a bolt calculation?
For a sound calculation, we require information on the geometry and arrangement of the bolts, the occurring loads (such as forces and moments), the materials used, and assembly parameters such as preload force and friction coefficient. Additionally, boundary conditions such as temperature or dynamic loads may also be relevant.