Interface Pressure from Symmetric and Asymmetric Contacts

[struclearner]

Dears,

The total force sum on contact nodes on the interface of a asymmetric contact from a pre load of a bolted joint is equal to the clamping force applied as a pre tension load to the pre tension section. This force is split in approximately equal value for a symmetric contact, how this could be explained as the total clamping force should be acting on one side and equal and opposite force should be on the other side as a reaction force.

Thanks for your input.