Bolt torque patterns on steel connections. Why the specific order?

Crew chief insists on a star pattern. I don't see the point.

3 comments

3 Comments

Yeah, the star pattern is non-negotiable. Watched a guy warp a whole flange once by going clockwise. It was a very expensive lesson for him.

jamie_white1d ago

Hold up, you're serious about not getting the star pattern? I mean, if you just go around in a circle, you can warp the flange or whatever. The star pattern spreads the squeeze evenly so nothing gets bent out of shape. Idk, maybe it's just me but I've seen connections fail from bad torque order. It's basic stuff in any steelwork guide.

jordanowens3h ago

Nah, gotta disagree on this one. Seen plenty of flanges tightened in a circle with no issues. Applying torque slow and even avoids warping. The star pattern just adds extra steps for most jobs. Basic guides overthink it sometimes.