HSFG bolted connections using weathering steel materials

Abstract

The procedure for designing and making high-strength friction grip (HSFG) bolted joints is relatively simple, but since they work by developing friction, the condition of the faying surfaces has a significant influence on the capacity of the joint. Despite this, there is little data available on the performance of HSFG joints made with weathering steel. The aim of this study was to investigate the slip factors of such joints and to identify the significance of any weathering of the joints between their preparation and assembly. The results demonstrate that the behaviour of joints made with weathering steel is very similar to that of joints made with similar strength carbon steel and that the effect of weathering of the faying surfaces on the friction that can be developed within such joints is insignificant.