# Calculating the lifting force $F_{Kab}$ with SolidWorks – according to VDI 2230

I’m not sure if my procedure to simulate the lifting force $$F_{Kab}$$ is correct. So I illustrate my way how to get the lifting force $$F_{Kab}$$ using SolidWorks and the simulation tool.

I hope you can give me a hint how to solve my issue correctly or perhaps you can also confirm my procedure. Many thanks in advance.

My procedure:

According to VDI 2230 I have to do two variants of calculation:

• applying the minimum assembly preload (see step of calculation R1)
• in R0 I get $$F_{Mmax}$$ using the table A7
• table A7 you can find via a google search. Enter "vdi 2230 pdf" and I think then you get a pdf and look for table A7 (see annex).
• with $$\alpha_A$$ the tightening factor I get the $$F_{Mmin,variant1}=F_{Mmax}/\alpha_A$$ which is applied to every bolt
• applying the maximum reduction in preloading force (see step of calculation R4)
• here my $$F_{Mmin,variant2}=F_{Mmin,variant1}-F_z$$ which is also applied to every bolt
• $$F_z$$ is the loss of preload as a result of embedding during operation

In the simulation all possible loads are active and are acting on the housing. The bolts are tighten in the first simulation with $$F_{Mmin,variant1}$$ and in the second simulation with $$F_{Mmin,variant2}$$.

Perform the two simulations…

To get the lifting force $$F_{Kab}$$ I right click the simulation results and pick “list result forces”. And now I choose “free body force”, klick the appropriate housing surface and klick the update-button. Now SolidWorks shows me the (total) lifting force $$F_{Kab}$$. This force divided by quantity of bolts gives me the $$F_{Kab}$$ per bolt which I’m interested in.

For my further calculations according to VDI 2230 I have to take the smallest $$F_{Kab}$$ per bolt.

• This question seems to be missing a diagram? Dec 7 '18 at 20:56
• @ Jonathan R Swift: Not really... I could only offer some screenshots. But therefore I have described (my) SolidWorks workflow very detailed. But when its not clear, then I will complete the SolidWorks description. And when you mean table A7 - I'm not sure if I can copy it (copyright). Dec 10 '18 at 7:29