Bolted Joints with Oversize or Slotted Holes

The effect of oversize and slotted holes is evaluated on the slip resistance and ultimate strength of bolted joints. Tests were performed with 21 samples with various types of joints. Oversize or slotted holes do not affect losses in bolt tension with time. Slip behavior of these joints is similar to slip behavior of joints with holes of nominal size. The average slip coefficient for joints with 1/4 in. hole clearance was about the same as the slip coefficient for hole joints. Changes in bolt tension were not greatly affected by oversize holes or slots. Slotted holes placed perpendicular to the line of load in the enclosed plates of a bolted joint did not reduce the tensile strength of the plates or the shear strength of the bolts.