Abstract: Bolted joints are the most typical form of a combination of department in the machine. The mechanism of bolted action is extremely complex, which is determined by many factors. While it plays a critical role in the overall performance of the machine, to study the static and dynamic characteristics is of great significance for the national machines innovative design and independent research and development. Over the past three decades, the characteristics of bolted joints are figured out, and its internal mechanism and main factors are clarified, but it is far away from truly establishing the constitutive model and obtaining common data. Therefore, a systematic analysis and of a summary the existing research results is made. Early studies concentrate on the equivalent linearization of bolted joints characteristics. In recent years, most researchers turn to study the nonlinear characteristics for the nature of strong nonlinearity of bolted joints. Based on the two directions, experimental and theoretical study, physical modeling and parameter identification, and the engineering applications of early research of bolted joints are reviewed. The assumptions and their advantages and disadvantages are compared, the current shortcomings of the studies are summarized, and future research prospects are concluded

Key words: Bolted joints, Dynamic characteristics