Which statement best describes bearing-type bolt connections?

• A. Load is transferred through bearing contact between parts, not through bolt pretension.
• B. Load is transferred by bolt pretension only.
• C. They do not require any washers.
• D. They are always used for slip-critical.

Answer: (A)

In a bearing-type bolt connection, the load path goes through bearing contact between the parts and the bolt hole, not primarily through the bolt’s pretension. When the assembly is loaded, the surfaces press against each other and against the bolt shank and hole, so the contact stresses transfer the force into the members. The tightening creates clamping, but the main transfer mechanism is bearing, not the bolt’s tension alone.

That’s why this option is best: it captures the idea that bearing-type connections rely on bearing action at the hole and contact surfaces to carry load, rather than using bolt pretension as the primary transfer mechanism found in slip-critical connections. The other statements don’t fit: bolt pretension isn’t the sole load path in bearing-type connections; washers are often used to distribute bearing pressure and protect surfaces; and bearing-type connections are not inherently slip-critical.