What type of nuts must be used for bolt connections in tower sections?

Using high tensile strength nuts with ratings of 12 for bolt connections in tower sections is essential due to the significant loads and stresses these structures endure. High tensile strength nuts provide the necessary durability and reliability to maintain secure connections under varying operational conditions.

Tower cranes experience substantial forces from lifting loads, wind, and dynamic movements, which can compromise weaker fasteners. Nuts rated for high tensile strength are designed to withstand these conditions and maintain their integrity over time, ensuring the safety and stability of the tower structure during operation.

In contrast, standard nuts may not offer the same level of strength and can be more susceptible to failure. Lock nuts, while beneficial for preventing loosening under vibration, still may not match the load-bearing capability required for tower connections. Plastic-coated nuts are generally not used in heavy-duty applications like tower cranes, as the coating could degrade or interfere with the load distribution. Thus, high tensile strength nuts are the optimal choice for ensuring the safety and performance of tower crane operations.