High Temperature Effects - 5
A fastener is tightened in the joint. This action places the bolt under significant stress. The length of the bolt does not increase. The joint and the nut will determine the length. Once exposed to a higher temperature, the bolt begins to relieve itself of a significant amount of the stress. Since the stress and the
preload are related, this implies that the clamping force with which the bolt holds the joint together will be significantly reduced.
