Procedure for Pretensioning

Using Direct Tension Indicator

Squirter Washers

1.0 Introduction

This document describes the procedure for installing high strength bolts per the direct-
tension-indicator pretensioning method as defined in Specification for Structural Joints
Using ASTM A325 or A490 Bolts (June 30, 2004) with modifications for specifically
using “squirter” type direct tension indicator washers.

A pretensioned joint is defined as:

“A joint that transmits shear and/or tensile loads in which the bolts have been
installed in accordance with Section 8.2 to provide a pretension in the installed
bolt”.

A “squirter” type direction tension indicator washer is a washer such as Squirter DTI’s
manufactured by Applied Bolting Technology. Squirter DTI’s are direct tension
indicator washers with a flexible silicone embedded in the depressions under the dimples.
Squirter DTI’s are fabricated and certified per ASTM F959.

2.0 Bolted Parts

2.1 All connected plies within the grip of the bolt shall be steel. Compressible
materials shall not be placed within the grip of the bolt.

2.2 Faying surfaces and surfaces adjacent to the bolt head and nut shall be free of dirt
and other foreign material. Burrs that extend over 1/16 inch above the surface
shall be removed. The faying surfaces of snug-tightened joints are permitted to be
uncoated, coated with coatings of any formulation or galvanized.

2.3 When the direct-tension-indicator pretensioning method is used, an ASTM F436

washer shall be used as follows:
A. When the nut is turned and the direct tension indicator is located under the
bolt head, an ASTM F436 washer shall be used under the nut;
B. When the nut is turned and the direct tension indicator is located under the
nut, an ASTM F436 washer shall be used between the nut and the direct
tension indicator;
C. When the bolt head is turned and the direct tension indicator is located under
the nut, an ASTM F436 washer shall be used under the bolt head; and
D. When the bolt head is turned and the direct tension indicator is located under
the bolt head, an ASTM F436 washer shall be used between the bolt head and
the direct tension indicator.

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 Procedure for Pretensioning
Using Direct Tension Indicator
Squirter Washers

Dimples must bear against underside of the bolt head or against an ASTM F436
washer. Do not bear the dimples against the nut or the connected steel.

3.0 Calibration

A representative sample of not fewer than three complete fastener assemblies (including
squirter washers) of each combination of bolt diameter to be used in the work shall be
calibrated on a Skidmore. Insert the bolt, nut, flat washer, and squirter washer on a
Skidmore. Tighten the assembly to about 10% to 20% (at least 5%) over the minimum
pretension value given in Table 8.1 of Specification for Structural Joints Using ASTM
A325 or A490 Bolts. Once tightened, note the appearance, flow volume, and number of
squirts emanating from under the squirter washer at that tension. The number of squirts
must be at least equal to the number of dimples less one. This method will establish the
visual criterion for pretensioning. This method eliminates the need for feeler gages.
Calibration is required for each bolt diameter, but is not affected by length of bolts or
installer or tool variations. It is recommended that photographs be taken of the calibrated
squirts for easy reference.

4.0 Installation

For any connection, first snug the array of bolts before final tightening making sure not to
fully compress the direct tension indicator on the first pass. On the final pass, compress
the direct tension indicators from the most rigid point outward. Tighten the bolt until
after the orange silicone appears in volume from at least all but one dimple locations.
Stop tightening once the squirt volume and appearance matches the calibration exercise.

5.0 Inspection

The inspector should observe the calibration for each bolt diameter. Inspectors should
inspect squirter washers by observing the volume and appearance of the silicone which
has emanated from the compressed squirter dimples. Tests have shown that after proper
calibration, the visual appearance of squirted silicone is a very accurate indicator of
proper direct tension indicator dimple compression.

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