Bolt Load Measurment
Sonar - Bolt Elongation
The Sonar DS-90 is a specialized ultrasonic time-of-flight (TOF) measurement device designed by Tension Pro, and officially distributed in India by ABS. This single-purpose unit measures, displays, stores, and transfers bolt load and elongation data in a rugged, single-purpose unit.
This capability is critical for ensuring bolted joints are tightened correctly to the design specification, thus avoiding joint leakage, mechanical, or fatigue failure. The unit is ideal for long-term monitoring of bolt load to ensure the integrity of critical assets.
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Features for Data Integrity & Usability
Secure Data Collection
Data is collected securely and is password protected to ensure integrity.
Data is collected securely and is password protected to ensure integrity.
Traceability
Each reading stores a real-time echo trace and is stamped with the date and time via an internal clock.
Each reading stores a real-time echo trace and is stamped with the date and time via an internal clock.
Data Transfer & Storage
Digital signal traces and data are stored for later display and can be transferred to a computer via USB.
Digital signal traces and data are stored for later display and can be transferred to a computer via USB.
Temperature Compensation
Features automatic temperature compensation utilizing an included magnetic temperature probe.
Features automatic temperature compensation utilizing an included magnetic temperature probe.
Transducer Versatility
Compatible with a full range of magnetic, non-magnetic, and glue-on transducers to meet specific bolt requirements.
Compatible with a full range of magnetic, non-magnetic, and glue-on transducers to meet specific bolt requirements.
The Sonar DS-90 utilizes advanced hybrid measurement techniques for reliable performance across demanding environments.
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Frequently Asked Questions
You will find answers to about our various industries and industry specialists service and more. Please feel
free to contact us if you don't get your question's answer in below.
free to contact us if you don't get your question's answer in below.
Bolt load measurement is the process of accurately determining the actual clamping force (tension) in a bolted joint. It is critical in safety-sensitive applications such as wind energy, oil & gas, power plants, mining, and heavy machinery, where incorrect bolt tension can lead to joint failure, leaks, vibration, or structural damage.
Smart sockets measure bolt load by directly sensing the applied load or elongation of the bolt during tightening or inspection. Unlike conventional torque tools, smart sockets provide real-time, repeatable, and accurate bolt load data, eliminating errors caused by friction, lubrication, or surface conditions.
Ultrasonic (often called sonic or solar) bolt load measurement uses high-frequency sound waves to measure the elongation of a bolt, which directly correlates to bolt tension. This method is highly accurate and is widely used for critical bolted joints, large-diameter bolts, and applications where torque methods are unreliable.
Bolt load measurement systems are commonly used in:
Wind turbine installation & maintenance
Oil & gas pipelines and flanges
Power generation plants
Steel structures & heavy fabrication
Mining and cement plants
Aerospace and heavy equipment manufacturing
These systems help ensure joint integrity, safety compliance, and repeatable assembly quality.
Calibration ensures that bolt load measurement equipment delivers accurate and traceable results. Regular calibration using certified calibration systems helps maintain measurement reliability, meet quality standards, and comply with audit and safety requirements in industrial environments.
Torque tightening only estimates bolt tension and is heavily affected by friction, surface finish, and lubrication. Bolt load measurement directly measures actual bolt tension, resulting in higher accuracy, reduced joint failures, improved reliability, and longer equipment life, especially in critical bolting applications.
