Unsymmetrically Distributed Bolt Axial Forces between Symmetrically Spaced Bolts of Clamping Sleeve

This article deals with the uniformity of the distribution of axial forces between the individual bolts of the clamping sleeve. Clamping sleeves are machine components connecting the shaft to the hub using contact force. For sleeve pretension, bolts are used and positioned symmetrically with respect to the axis of the clamping sleeve. Though the bolts are placed symmetrically around the axis, the bolt axial forces are not uniformly distributed when the bolts are tightened according to the manufacturer’s catalog. First, this article describes the procedure for tightening the sleeve bolts according to the manufacturer’s catalog. In the next part of the article, an FEA simulation of sleeve tightening is performed. The FEM simulation is then compared with the values found by measurement.