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Objective
A means of achieving close tolerances between bolts and the holes into which they fit has been developed by NASAs Marshall Space Flight Center. A problem occasionally arises when factors such as vibrations cause the deformation of the hole into which a bolt is fitted. This results in the joint losing strength and can lead to failure of the connection. The innovation provides a means of restoring the bolt hole to the exact dimensions of the bolt, thereby reducing, if not completely eliminating, the safety hazard.
Description
The means of achieving close tolerances between bolts and bolt holes is employed after the bolt has been installed and secured in the normal manner. Through a channel in the bolt, a strong, rigid plastic, ceramic or plastic-ceramic in a fluid form is forced into the bolt holes, filling the spaces between the bolt and bolt hole surfaces of the elements. A mold bolt is provided for carrying out the process of the invention. The mold bolt provides the means of exactly sizing the bolt hole. When the filler plastic/ceramic has hardened, the mold bolt is withdrawn and a conventional bolt of the same size is inserted into the perfectly sized bolt hole, thereby providing an economical means of achieving a vibration-damage proof but nevertheless, totally secure connection.
Benefits
This device permits the restoration of worn or damaged bolt holes in existing installations and prevents wear and tear on new bolt holes by eliminating the possibility for bolt movement caused by vibrations. This simple means of restoring bolt holes should result in considerable cost savings as entire support structures will not have to be replaced if the holes for their connecting bolts can be quickly and economically restored. Damage caused by vibration can be prevented in new installations by using the invention when the bolt is installed, thereby preventing vibration damage from ever occurring.
Current Capabilities
The means of achieving close tolerances between bolts and bolt holes is suitable for use on plates or flanges of instruments, machines, and pipes which are subject to shock and/or vibrations.
Technical Basics
The means of achieving close tolerances between bolts and bolt holes is employed after the bolt has been installed and secured in the normal manner. Through a channel in the bolt, a strong, rigid plastic, ceramic or plastic-ceramic in a fluid form is forced into the bolt holes, filling the spaces between the bolt and bolt hole surfaces of the elements. A mold bolt is provided for carrying out the process of the invention. The mold bolt provides the means of exactly sizing the bolt hole. When the filler plastic/ceramic has hardened, the mold bolt is withdrawn and a conventional bolt of the same size is inserted into the perfectly sized bolt hole, thereby providing an economical means of achieving a vibration-damage proof but nevertheless, totally secure connection.
Potential Application(s)
The means of achieving close tolerances between bolts and bolt holes is suitable for use on plates or flanges of instruments, machines, and pipes which are subject to shock and/or vibrations.
Technology Commercialization Status
The patent for this technology has expired. Please reference case number MFS-28720-1 for additional information..
Related Technologies
Contact
If your company is interested in this technology please contact:
Sammy Nabors
NASA/Marshall Space Flight Center
Phone: (256) 544-5226
FAX: (256) 544-3151
E-mail: sammy.a.nabors@nasa.gov
Public Release Date: 12/1/1999
Reference Number: TOP8-42
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