设计指南17为结构工程师提供了选择合适的高强度螺栓、指定其安装和检查方法以及设计使用此类紧固件的连接所需的信息。重点放在高强度螺栓上。由于许多铆接结构仍在使用中，且通常必须验证其充分性，因此还提供了铆钉的简要说明。

Design Guide 17 provides the structural engineer with the information necessary to select suitable high-strength bolts, specify the methods of their installation and inspection, and to design connections that use this type of fastener. Emphasis is placed on high-strength bolts. Because many riveted structures are still in use and often their adequacy must be verified, a short description of rivets is also provided.