The biggest challenge any engineer has when designing HSS connections is the limited access to one side of the tube. This results in conventional structural bolting being impossible and limiting options to costly and potentially dangerous field welding. With the introduction of the blind bolt however, access to one side of the member is all that’s required for installation of a high strength bolt.
Below will discuss the advantages of using a blind bolt in HSS members over the alternative of drilling access holes or attaching weld plates.
The Conventional Method
The conventional method for bolting in HSS members results in access holes or attaching a weld plate for bolts to fasten into.
The use of access holes – unless in the proper location on the member – can result in the weakening of the HSS members strength.
Attaching a weld plate to the member creates an extra step to a process that lacks working space, which can lead to even more lost time.
Therefore, an alternative is required for bolting into HSS members.
Introduction of the NexGen2™ Blind Bolt
When it was created, the NexGen2™ Blind Bolt Assembly was specifically designed for the tower industry to provide full structural strength, guaranteed bolt tensioning and superior engagement of the shear sleeve into the shear plane every time.
Since then, it can be presented as a sophisticated, innovative, and streamlined solution for one-sided installation of structural bolts in the ANY industry.
Due to the NexGen2™ Assembly being a blind bolt it is specifically manufactured to be installed without access to one side of the structure.
During installation of the NexGen2™ bolt the adjusted washer folds to fit into the interior of the structure and automatically adjusts back into a washer as the bolt is being tensioned. With the NexGen2™ Blind Bolt Assembly no guess work is involved when tensioning due to its shear sleeve detachment upon correct tensioning – this results in a visual inspection of correct tension after installation.
Not Just for HSS Members
The bolts high strength and corrosion resistance makes it great option for attaching structural members onto water tanks and storage facilities that are only accessible by one side.
What Makes Up the NexGen2™ Bolt
Made in the USA and designed in ASTM 490M M20 bolts with Magni coating, the NexGen2™ Blind Bolt Assembly features a high strength tensile steel coil spring and shear sleeve ASTM A519 Grade 4140.
ICC ESR-3975 Evaluated helps to meet more requirements for use. With less energy required for installation and its economical advantages, the NexGen2™ bolt is perfect for HSS members.
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