Clearances for Fasteners

Designs should provide ample clearance for tightening high-strength bolts. Detailers who prepare shop drawings for fabricators generally are aware of the necessity for this and can, with careful detailing, secure the necessary space. In tight situations, the solution may be staggering of holes (Fig. 5.6), variations from standard gages (Fig. 5.7), use of knife-type connections, or use of a combination of shop welds and field bolts.
Minimum clearances for tightening highstrength bolts are indicated in Fig. 5.8 and Table 5.6.

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