F.A.Q

Welcome to the BoltCheck FAQ page! Here, you'll find a growing collection of valuable information about bolting tools, torque measurement and torque calibration. Whether you're a seasoned user of our flagship product, Delta Sigma, or simply looking to understand more about ultrasonic bolt testing technologies, this page is designed to be a useful resource.

We are curating this FAQ page to provide answers to the questions we know our customers have. From basic concepts to advanced techniques, we've got you covered. As we continue to expand this page, we aim to create a comprehensive resource that supports both experienced users and newcomers. Whether you're looking for troubleshooting tips, benchmark data, best practices, or guidance on optimizing your device, we hope to provide relevant content for you here.

Q: What is the shortest bolt that can be measured?
A: 10mm

Q: How many bolts can the instrument measure?
A: The memory capacity in the instrument is 32Gb and in terms of theoretical storage space this equates to over a million bolt readings. However we recommend to back-up and upload bolt groups for specific re-measuring tasks as the processor will use considerable time to back up or upload 1000s of bolts and bolt groups.

Q: Can the Delta Sigma measure very long fasteners, tie bar or shaft stretch?
A: Tie bars and shafts up to 11 meters or 35 feet long can usually be measured in standard Pulse-Echo mode with one transducer. The Delta Sigma’s Pitch-Catch capabilities also allows a transducer to be placed on each end of very long tie bars and shafts, and has been used up to 30 meters

Q: Can the Delta Sigma measure torque (Nm/Lbf.Ft)?
A: No, the Delta Sigma measures bolt elongation which has a much more accurate and predictable relationship to bolt load (kN/LBf) than torque. (Hooke’s Law and Young’s modulus)

Q: Can bolt elongation be measured to develop predictive and preventative maintenance procedures?
A: Yes, bolt elongation and load can be verified during and after bolt tightening. Re-Checks can be performed indefinitely to verify that the bolts are applying the required clamping force

Q: Do bolts require special preparation?
A: The bolt ends should be flat and relatively smooth. Raised head markings or burrs can interfere with transducer contact. Either remove the raised markings or find a smooth location that will permit the transducer to make contact with the bolt end. See this video for details: YOUTUBE

Q: Is special software required to backup and restore data between the Delta Sigma and a computer?
A: No, when the USB data transfer cable connects the Delta Sigma to a computer, the computer sees it as a USB drive. Data can be easily copied and pasted to the computer and vice versa.

Q: How are files converted to Excel?
A: The Delta Sigma has a built-in function that converts files to .CSV format. Just select the Project and press the spreadsheet icon.

Q: Is the Delta Sigma rugged enough for field use?
A: Yes, the Delta Sigma is IP44 rated and is commonly used on construction sites and maintenance for wind power, refineries, mining, offshore oil and gas, and other projects with critical bolt joints.

Q: Can the Delta Sigma be used in manufacturing?
A: Yes, many manufacturers that require verification of bolt loads use the Delta Sigma in a production line verification role, checking a sample of bolts, post assembly, that were tightened using torque or torque+angle to ensure that the automated equipment is still delivering within spec bolt