Clamping force
Also: joint clamp load
The compressive force holding mating joint surfaces together.
It arises from fastener preload and supports frictional shear transfer until separation or slip changes the load path.
Example A 1500 N clamp with friction coefficient 0.25 offers roughly 375 N at one slip plane.
Common misconception Clamping force is not automatically equal to external shear load or tightening torque.