Performance of high-strength structural bolts in practice
HERA advises that there have been up to 10 reported instances since 1983 where the bolt method called for full tensioning but the bolts were installed snug tight. This leads to problems with bolt failure or the nut loosening some time after installation. A greater number of problems have been encountered where the bolt supplied is not the bolt specified, or where there has been insufficient thread engagement by the nut. NZS 3404 Clause 14.3.6.1.2 specifies that at least one clear thread must protrude above the nut after tightening. Almost all the latter type of problem are construction errors related to holddown bolts being set too low.