ESDU 13016 discusses the behaviour of loads in a pre-loaded, single-bolt joint during external loading. Using a non-linear finite element analysis of the bolt and the member, loads are plotted against applied external loading, ranging from zero (bolt pre-loaded only) up to a maximum of 0.95 times the amount of pre load; note the data are non dimensionalised with respect to pre-load. The effect of bolt size, joint geometry, radial position of the external load, material properties in the joint and thread flexibility on the loads are all examined. The Item also considers changes to the inter-member contact pressure distributions that take place in a reference joint. The relationship between member stiffnesses and the applied external load is examined with a worked example calculating bolt and member stiffnesses when external loads are applied to an M10 bolted joint.