Diagnosing Failures, Testing and AnalysisFastener failures often result from improper installation or component selection. Bossard uses ultrasonic testing to measure clamp load directly without modifying the joint. Only in specific applications, such as engine bolts, is full stretching used to obtain maximum clamp load, he noted. There are a host of fastening and joining components providers, and Machine Design has compiled a few here that address challenges in fastening reliability, assembly efficiency, thermal management and joint integrity. Additionally, you will find more fastening and joining components in Rehana Begg’s article “Hold it Together: Fasteners, Springs, Screws, Nuts, Bolts.”