What is the difference between a bearing bolt and a friction bolt?

The terms "bearing bolt" and "friction bolt" refer to two different types of bolts used in construction and engineering, each serving distinct purposes and functioning differently. Here's a breakdown of the key differences between them:

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Bearing Bolt:

Function: A bearing bolt, also known as a structural bolt or high-strength bolt, is primarily used to provide structural support and to transfer loads between connected structural elements. It is designed to withstand high loads and stresses, making it suitable for applications where structural integrity is critical.

Construction: Bearing bolts are typically made from high-strength materials such as carbon steel or alloy steel. They are engineered to have specific mechanical properties, including high tensile strength and shear strength, to ensure reliable performance under heavy loads.

Installation: Bearing bolts are installed using torque-controlled methods, such as torque wrenches or hydraulic torque equipment, to achieve precise tightening according to design specifications. Proper installation is crucial to ensure that the bolt can effectively transfer loads between connected members without failure.

Usage: Bearing bolts are commonly used in structural steel connections, such as column-to-beam connections, truss joints, and base plate connections. They are also used in bridge construction, industrial facilities, and other applications where high-strength fasteners are required to withstand substantial loads.

Friction Bolt:

Function: A friction bolt, also known as a expansion bolt or wedge bolt, is primarily used for anchoring or fastening non-structural elements to concrete, masonry, or other solid surfaces. It relies on friction between the bolt and the surrounding material to provide anchorage and resist pull-out forces.

Friction Bolt

Construction: Friction bolts typically consist of a threaded bolt or rod with a tapered expansion sleeve or wedge nut at one end. When the bolt is tightened, the expansion sleeve or wedge nut is forced against the inner surface of the hole, creating friction and securing the bolt in place.

Installation: Friction bolts are installed by drilling a hole into the base material, inserting the bolt, and then tightening it using a wrench or impact driver. As the bolt is tightened, the expansion sleeve or wedge nut expands to grip the surrounding material, creating a secure anchor point.

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Usage: Friction bolts are commonly used in construction, renovation, and maintenance projects to anchor fixtures, equipment, handrails, and other non-structural elements to concrete or masonry surfaces. They are also used in mining and tunneling applications for rock reinforcement and ground support.

In summary, the main difference between a bearing bolt and a friction bolt lies in their intended function, construction, and usage. Bearing bolts are used for structural connections and rely on high-strength materials and precise installation techniques to transfer loads between connected members. Friction bolts, on the other hand, are used for anchoring and fastening non-structural elements to solid surfaces, relying on friction to provide secure anchorage.

The main difference between a bearing bolt and a friction bolt lies in their respective mechanisms of anchoring and load transfer.

Bearing Bolt:

Load Transfer: Bearing bolts rely on bearing friction to transfer loads from the bolt to the surrounding rock or concrete. They achieve this by creating a tight fit between the bolt and the drilled hole, ensuring direct contact and load transfer.

Installation: Bearing bolts are typically installed by inserting them into pre-drilled holes and then grouting the annulus between the bolt and the hole. The grout provides additional support and helps enhance the bearing capacity of the bolt.

Support Application: Bearing bolts are commonly used in applications where the primary load transfer mechanism is through direct contact between the bolt and the surrounding rock or concrete. They are often employed in stable ground conditions where high bearing capacity and reliable load transfer are essential.

Friction Bolt:

Load Transfer: Friction bolts rely on frictional resistance between the bolt and the surrounding rock or concrete to transfer loads. They achieve this by expanding an anchor or shell within a pre-drilled hole, creating frictional resistance against the walls of the hole.

Installation: Friction bolts are installed by inserting them into pre-drilled holes and then expanding an anchor or shell at the end of the bolt. The expansion creates radial pressure against the walls of the hole, generating frictional resistance and anchorage.

Support Application: Friction bolts are commonly used in applications where the primary load transfer mechanism is through frictional resistance rather than direct bearing. They are often employed in challenging ground conditions where stable support is required, such as in loose or fractured rock.

While both bearing bolts and friction bolts are used for reinforcement and support in rock and concrete structures, they differ in their load transfer mechanisms and installation procedures. Bearing bolts rely on direct contact and bearing friction, while friction bolts rely on frictional resistance generated by expansion within the drilled hole. Each type of bolt has its own advantages and is chosen based on the specific requirements of the project and the geological conditions encountered.