The effect of eccentric loading on the fatigue performance of high-tensile bolts

The effect of eccentric cyclic loading on the fatigue life of bolts has been investigated. It was found that eccentric loading reduced the fatigue life of bolts by an amount proportional to the increase in the local stress amplitude produced by the eccentricity. The increase in local mean stress due to eccentricity was found not to affect the fatigue life, and eccentric loading was found not to affect significantly the shape of fatigue cracks.