Open Access

ARTICLE

Numerical Modeling and Simulation of a Bolted Hybrid Joint

F. Caputo, G. Lamanna, A. Soprano¹

1 The Second University of Naples - DIAM, Naples, Italy.

Structural Durability & Health Monitoring 2011, 7(4), 283-296. https://doi.org/10.3970/sdhm.2011.007.283

Abstract

The present paper deals with a numerical investigation on hybrid bolted joints between unidirectional, quasi isotropic Carbon Fiber Reinforced Polymer (CFRP) composite and aluminium alloy plates, subjected to traction loads. CFRP composite materials are widely used in aerospace applications, where requirements of weight reduction and structural high performances are very compelling. Composite materials generally present high resistance to fatigue and corrosion but the presence of joints in the structure can cause structural problems and then decrease the structural reliability of jointed component.
A hybrid bolted joint constituted of a metal plate, made of aluminium alloy, and a carbon fiber reinforced plastic (CFRP) composite plate has been analyzed; a titanium bolt holds the plates together. Experimental results have been compared with those obtained through a numerical analysis developed by using Abaqus^® finite element code, in order to validate the numerical model.
Once the model has been validated, other suitable configurations have been numerically analyzed to investigate on the global strength of the examined hybrid joint for different geometrical configurations; in particular, the influence of bolt hole clearance on the stiffness and strength of the joint have been considered.
It has been found that the developed three-dimensional finite element model provides results, which are in good agreement with the experimental ones. Three-dimensional effects such as secondary bending and through-thickness variations in stress and strain are well represented by such model.

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