Prediction of Bearing Strength in Fiber Metal Laminates

Abstract

Finite element (FE) analyses are carried out on bolt bearing testing scenarios based on data found in the literature. Both layer-by-layer and smeared property FE models are created to calculate the compressive characteristic dimension (CCD) for three GLARE variants. A novel re-definition of conventional CCD is proposed which is governed by the yield strength of aluminum. The new definition also incorporates the two-phase nature of GLARE, as well as the delamination/ buckling phenomenon for pin/bolt bearing, in a bearing failure mode. A previously unconsidered, orthotropic plate buckling analysis is also conducted in a conservative, worst case scenario sense on the laterally unsupported prepreg layers. Results of the buckling analysis suggest that the prepreg contribution to bearing strength, in a bearing failure mode, is at best negligible and joint collapse is governed by the yielding and delamination of the aluminum layers. Calculation of a CCD, based on the new yield strength definition, produced consistent values amongst all GLARE variants considered in the layer-by-layer analysis suggesting that the CCD is a property of the material alone.