Torque is applied to the fastener in an effort to elastically deform the bolt shank. In the case of bolts and nuts, this elastic deformation between the bolt head and the nut is critical in order to create tension or clamping force to hold the joint together. The amount of torque applied is a function of the frictional forces and bolt diameter and is typically calculated utilizing a clamp load equaling 60-70% of the yield. Below are guides that show these calculations for a variety of materials, bolts sizes and thread counts over a range of frictional conditions.

NOTE: The actual clamp load is dependent on a variety of factors including the material, condition of the fasteners, surface finish, lubrication etc. The percentages provided are illustrative of what one might expect to see should only be used as a general guide.

* Yield strength used to calculate torque values are based on the typical yield. *