Bolted assemblies are prone to a number of safety risks, such as incorrect assembly, which accounts for about 45% of all fatigue failures, insufficient preload, over- or under-tightening and misalignment.

Conventional methods for tightening bolts use torque, applied by hand, or torque tools which can damage threads and flange faces, leading to re-machining and added downtime. The bolts may also become loose over time and need re-tightening. Heat induction can be used but this requires specialist contractors at an additional cost.

Hydrocam hydraulically operated bolt tensioners are designed to overcome these problems by axially stretching bolts and studs using a pre-determined residual load to create a high integrity fixing, which can be mounted and dismounted quickly and safely without damage. The bolt tensioners are designed to offer greater accuracy compared to conventional fixing methods.

Hydrocam is said to reduce uncertainty over the performance and long-term reliability of couplings and offers control and safety, saving time and reducing risks. Damage to bolts and associated structures is avoided, installation is faster, operation of equipment is optimised and maintenance needs are minimised.

The bolt tensioner can be supplied as a single tool or incorporated into a multi-tensioner for homogenous tightening. In most applications it can be reused with multiple fittings but can also be permanently incorporated into the nut assembly.

Hydrocam is manufactured by SKF-owned Pilgrim and is supplied ready-for-use with the tensioner unit, power pack and all relevant fittings. The power pack can be hydraulically, electrically or hand operated.