Bolting Technology Advancements: What's New in the Industry?
Accuracy. Safety. Durability.
Those are just a few of the main challenges of bolting technology—and what good bolting operations aim to accomplish. To ensure joint integrity, proper torque, and tension must be applied for precise fastening. Precise fastening also impacts joint durability. Joints often have to withstand vibrations, sustain heavy loads, and endure extreme environmental hazards and conditions. Finally, there's a risk to an operator's personal health and safety when performing bolting, underscoring the need for safe work practices.
The good news is that—like many industries and fields of practice—bolting products continue to improve and advance. In this post, we'll examine some of the latest advancements in bolting technology designed to make operations more accurate, joints more durable, and operators safer.
Bolting Technology Advancements: What You Need to Know
Bolting tools and systems have continued to advance, from torque wrenches to tension tools. Here's a look at some of the ways these advancements have improved bolting tools and streamlined operations, improving the overall process and leading to better, more reliable assemblies.
Smart Bolting Systems
You've heard of the smart home and office, maybe even the smart, connected city. Smart systems are extending to many areas of practice, including bolting. Smart bolting systems incorporate advanced technologies that include sensors, digital controls, and other solutions to help enhance precision and optimize safety. Another nice thing about smart bolting systems is that they provide real-time feedback. This monitoring allows operators to optimize the process further and weed out any issues before they have a chance to arise. Two key benefits of adopting smart bolting tools and systems are enhanced safety and streamlined productivity.
Advanced Torque Control Tools
Torque tools are among the most important in bolting - and they continue to advance to become "smarter" and better overall. They accomplish this by integrating with advanced software, which allows operators to log and monitor data. This does more than just allow operators to apply more precise torque and prevent over-tightening, it can help significantly improve quality control. These "connected" tools also provide a record for operators to analyze and make further improvements to optimize tool performance and the overall bolting process.
Ultrasonic Bolting Technology
Another key technological advancement in bolting is the incorporation of ultrasonics. Ultrasonic technology works by using waves to accurately measure the elongation of bolts while they're being tightened. This can help provide real-time feedback to operators and allow for more repeatable, streamlined bolting. Using ultrasonic bolting technology can also help improve the durability and reliability of any assembly. Just think of it as a quality control measure.
On-Demand Service
This doesn't exactly qualify as a technological enhancement but more of a service enhancement. Rather than asking operators to send in their bolting tools for repair or recalibration, many providers, like Aztec Bolting, bring the service to them. Via mobile units, service professionals can arrive at your industrial bolting job quickly to perform calibration, tool repair, training, and more. Such services can also provide operators with new tools and equipment. This type of service can help maintain productivity and reduce downtime.
Contact Aztec Bolting Today
From carrying industry-leading brands and technologically advanced bolting products and accessories to offering mobile service to operators needing repair, equipment, or training, Aztec Bolting is your premier partner for all things bolting. Contact us today to learn more about Aztec Bolting's offerings and how bolting technology improves reliability, durability, and safety in the field.
