engineering

Bolt Preload Calculator

Calculate bolt preload, torque requirements, and joint clamping force using the torque-tension relationship T = KFd

Bolt Preload Calculator

Calculate bolt preload torque, stress, and joint separation margin using T = K·F·d.

Formula

T = K · F_i · d
σ_b = F_i / A_t
Recommended F_i = 0.75 · S_p · A_t
FOS_sep = F_i / P (joint separation)

M20 = 20 mm | M12 = 12 mm

M20: 245 mm² | M12: 84.3 mm²

Gr 8.8: 600 MPa | 10.9: 830 MPa

Results

Tightening Torque T

200.00 N·m

Bolt Tensile Stress σ_b

204.08 MPa

σ_b / S_p (utilization)

34.0%

FOS Joint Separation

2.500

Recommended F_i (0.75·S_p·A_t)

110250 N

Calculation

T = 0.2 × 50000 N × 20.0 mm = 200.00 N·m

Tensile Stress Areas (ISO metric)

M8: 36.6 mm²M10: 58.0 mm²M12: 84.3 mm²M16: 157 mm²M20: 245 mm²M24: 353 mm²

How to Use This Calculator

1

Enter your input values

Fill in all required input fields for the Bolt Preload Calculator. Most fields include unit selectors so you can work in your preferred unit system.

2

Review your inputs

Double-check that all values are correct and that you have selected the right units for each field. Incorrect units are the most common source of calculation errors.

3

Read the results

The Bolt Preload Calculator instantly computes the output and displays results with units. All calculations happen in your browser — no loading time and no data sent to a server.

Formula Reference

Bolt Preload Calculator Formula

See calculator inputs for the governing equation

Variables: All variables and their units are labeled in the calculator interface above.

When to Use This Calculator

  • Use the Bolt Preload Calculator when solving homework or exam problems that require quick numerical verification of your hand calculations.
  • Use it during the design phase to rapidly iterate on parameters before running detailed finite element simulations.
  • Use it when reviewing a colleague's calculation or checking a vendor's data sheet for plausibility.
  • Use it to generate reference data for a technical report or presentation without manual computation.

Related Calculators