What typically causes distortion in anchor bolts?

Distortion in anchor bolts is primarily associated with serious foundation settlement. When a foundation experiences settlement, it can lead to uneven loads and stresses being applied to the anchor bolts, causing them to bend, twist, or otherwise distort from their original configuration. This distortion can compromise the integrity of the anchor system and may lead to significant operational and safety issues in the equipment it supports.

While other factors can affect anchor bolts, they do not directly cause distortion in the same way as foundation settlement. For example, corrosion can weaken materials but typically does not result in immediate distortion of the bolts themselves. Excessive tightening can lead to bolt fracture or failure rather than distortion, while weather effects can cause environmental degradation but are less likely to result directly in the distortion of the bolts themselves. Therefore, serious foundation settlement stands out as the most significant cause of distortion in anchor bolts, directly impacting their alignment and functional performance.