Tightness is not merely a matter of "torque," but a controlled condition—ranging from snug-tight to fully pretensioned—intended to develop specific clamping forces that ensure load transfer by bearing, friction, or a combination of both. Effective bolting inspection therefore requires systematic verification of installation methods, pre-installation testing, and field confirmation of bolt tension to ensure that the intended design performance is achieved and maintained throughout the life of the structure.

Poor workmanship in structural steel bolting—particularly with respect to improper tightening—can significantly compromise the safety and performance of a structure. Inadequately tightened bolts may fail to develop the required clamping force, leading to joint slip, unintended load redistribution, fatigue cracking, and progressive connection distress under cyclic or dynamic loading.

Conversely, over-tightening can damage bolt threads, strip nuts, fracture bolts, or induce localized yielding in connected materials. Misaligned components, improper washer placement, reused tension-control bolts, or failure to follow approved pretensioning methods can all reduce connection reliability and invalidate design assumptions established under AISC and RCSC requirements.

Over time, such deficiencies may manifest as excessive deflection, vibration, water infiltration at connections, or in severe cases, partial or complete connection failure—often requiring costly remediation and structural reinforcement. Ultimately, poor bolting workmanship not only jeopardizes structural integrity but also exposes contractors, inspectors, and owners to significant liability and life-safety risk.

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