In this paper, the conical-shaped equivalent model for a bolted joint is considered. In particular, the governing equations for this model are made non-dimensional for the purposes of conducting sensitivity analysis. From this work, a plot of the dimensionless spring-rate of the clamped material is generated for all reasonable designs for which the conicalshaped equivalent model applies. The sensitivity analysis is then used to discuss the relative importance of estimating the proper model and design parameters and a maximum percent of uncertainty in the spring-rate calculation is also presented. It is shown in this discussion that the calculations are quite sensitive to a proper estimation of the cone angle (a model parameter) and that uncertainty within this calculation can range from 5 to 20%.

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