GATE ME 2018 Set 2 — Question 18

MCQ+1 / -0.33MediumBolted, Riveted & Welded JointsMachine ElementsMachine Design

Machine Design → Machine Elements → Bolted, Riveted & Welded Joints

Last updated 5 September 2026

Question

Pre-tensioning of a bolted joint is used to

Correct answer (C) increase stiffness of the bolted joint Solution Pre-tensioning (or pre-loading) of a bolted joint involves tightening the bolt to a specific initial tension before it is subjected to external working loads. This process creates a clamping force between the joined members. 1. Increased Stiffness : By ensuring that the clamped members remain in contact under load, pre-tensioning effectively increases the overall stiffness of the joint assembly. The joint behaves as a more rigid unit because the high compressive stiffness of the members contributes to resisting external tensile loads. 2. Fatigue Resistance : It significantly improves the fatigue life of the bolt by reducing the range of stress fluctuations it experiences during cyclic loading. 3. Prevention of Separation : It prevents the joint from opening or separating when external tensile loads are applied, maintaining the integrity of the seal or connection. Among the given options, the primary mechanical effect listed is the increase in stiffness of the bolted joint. Turn this into a strength. Explore AI-powered practice and doubt support with Success Tracker.

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Correct answer (C) increase stiffness of the bolted joint Solution Pre-tensioning (or pre-loading) of a bolted joint involves tightening the bolt to a specific initial tension before it is subjected to external working loads. This process creates a clamping force between the joined members. 1. Increased Stiffness : By ensuring that the clamped members remain in contact under load, pre-tensioning effectively increases the overall stiffness of the joint assembly. The joint behaves as a more rigid unit because the high compressive stiffness of the members contributes to resisting external tensile loads. 2. Fatigue Resistance : It significantly improves the fatigue life of the bolt by reducing the range of stress fluctuations it experiences during cyclic loading. 3. Prevention of Separation : It prevents the joint from opening or separating when external tensile loads are applied, maintaining the integrity of the seal or connection. Among the given options, the primary mechanical effect listed is the increase in stiffness of the bolted joint.

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