Free Bolt Torque Calculator

Calculate the required tightening torque for a bolt to achieve a target preload (clamp force).

kN
mm

Required Torque

160.0 N-m

Required Torque vs Target Preload Force (F)

Bolt Torque-Preload Relationship

Torque applied to a bolt creates axial preload that clamps the joint together.

Formula

T = K F d

where T is the tightening torque, K is the nut factor (torque coefficient), F is the desired preload, and d is the nominal bolt diameter. K depends on lubrication: dry steel K = 0.20, lightly oiled K = 0.15, anti-seize compound K = 0.12.

Example Calculation

An M16 bolt needs 50 kN preload with K = 0.2 (dry).

  1. 01F = 50 kN = 50,000 N
  2. 02d = 16 mm = 0.016 m
  3. 03T = 0.2 x 50,000 x 0.016 = 160 N-m

Frequently Asked Questions

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