Successful design is usually achieved through the combination of theoretical analysis and practical testing. The level of confidence in theoretical work alone is limited by the accuracy of the data being used and the accuracy of the theoretical method. Physical testing overcomes this problem but it is usually impossible to explore the limits of all potential variations. Close agreement between theoretical and practical results gives the designer high confidence that the joint’s behaviour is understood, that the theory is correct and that a successful design results.
This section aims to give the designer guidelines for the testing of threaded fastener joints. It is not specific since the type of validation depends on the type of joint and the circumstances in which it is being designed.