Bolt galling, a type of adhesive wear, can cause significant problems for threaded fasteners during tightening, particularly in high-pressure, high-temperature, or stainless steel applications. The consequences include seized bolts, costly delays, and even damaged components. However, galling can be prevented with the right torque procedures and tools.
Industrial Bolting is here to assist you in this process.
What Causes Bolt Galling?
Bolt galling occurs when threaded surfaces rub together under pressure without adequate lubrication or alignment. This causes microscopic welding of the metal, resulting in increased friction, rapid wear, binding, and thread tearing. Factors such as high surface roughness, improper preload, and excessive torque can worsen galling.
How Torque Control Prevents Galling
One of the most effective ways to prevent galling is through controlled torque application. Using calibrated hydraulic torque wrenches ensures:
- Even preload distribution.
- Reduced friction between threads.
- Avoidance of over-tightening.
Industrial Bolting provides precision tools suitable for any job. Whether you need square drive or low-profile hydraulic torque wrenches, we offer rental and purchase options to meet your project requirements and budget. Our
torque tool rental program guarantees that every tool is properly maintained and calibrated to ensure accurate performance each time.
Thread Protection Best Practices
To safeguard fasteners during tightening:
- Use anti-seize or thread lubricant on stainless or similar alloy fasteners.
- Apply torque slowly and steadily to minimize heat and surface friction.
- Choose tools with precision torque control to avoid galling-inducing overload.
Our
Tool Command Center™ makes organizing and tracking the tools you need on-site easy, ensuring your torque process stays consistent and efficient.
Training and Support You Can Count On
Even the best tools need skilled hands. That’s why Industrial Bolting provides comprehensive
Torque & Tension Operational Training, tailored to your team’s needs—whether you’re new to bolting techniques or looking to refine procedures to prevent galling and thread damage.
Protect Your Equipment—and Your Timeline
Galling doesn’t have to be a costly setback. With Industrial Bolting’s expert support, rental and
tool sales options, advanced torque equipment, and hands-on training, your team will be prepared to protect fasteners and ensure bolted joint integrity every time.
Contact our team at
(888) 781-2007 to discuss your torque tooling needs, schedule training, or learn how to set up a custom Tool Command Center™ for your site. We proudly serve companies across the United States from our locations in
Westfield and
Merrillville, Indiana, and
Muskego, Wisconsin. Söderman, Anders, and Patrik Lundström Törnquist. “Galling Is a Serious Issue in Many Industries That Use Stainless Steel Fasteners—But There Are Solutions.”
Metal Powder Report 76, no. 4 (2019): 194–95.
https://doi.org/10.1016/j.mprp.2019.07.004.