Tightening torque requirement for screws with washers

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SUMMARY

The use of flat washers does not significantly alter the required tightening torque for M4 socket head cap screws, as torque is primarily determined by the threads and their contact. However, for specialized applications, testing may be necessary to confirm torque requirements. Standard torque tables should be followed for typical applications, with resources such as Portland Bolt's torque chart and Bolt Supply's PDF providing necessary specifications, including bolt grades like 8.8 and 10.9.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of torque specifications and their importance in fastening.
  • Familiarity with M4 socket head cap screws and their applications.
  • Knowledge of bolt grades, specifically grades 8.8 and 10.9.
  • Access to torque tables and charts for reference.
NEXT STEPS
  • Research the impact of washers on torque requirements in specialized applications.
  • Study the torque tables provided by Portland Bolt and Bolt Supply for various bolt grades.
  • Learn about the testing methods for determining torque in structural applications.
  • Explore best practices for selecting the appropriate fasteners based on load distribution.
USEFUL FOR

This discussion is beneficial for mechanical engineers, assembly technicians, and anyone involved in fastening applications requiring precise torque specifications.

gnurf
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Does the use of one or more flat washers change the required tightening torque of e.g. a M4 socket head cap screw?
 
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Washers serve multiple purposes - as spacers, to distribute the load across the material, to keep nuts tight (lock washers), etc.

But the torque is primarily determined by the threads and their contact. I don't see that the washer would affect this, but for special applications you could test this - such as structural bolts.

But for ordinary things you can just follow the recommended torque tables.

For example: http://www.portlandbolt.com/technicalinformation/bolt-torque-chart.html
 
I could only find a PDF with a table that contains M4, but it does including the bolt grades.
http://www.boltsupply.com/catalogue_files/catalog_data/toc_data/pdf/019.pdf

I take it you know what grade the bolts are that you are asking about? (8,8, 10.9 etc).
 

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