Prediction of net-tension failure of multi-bolt composite joints: A fast approach for laminates with arbitrary layup

Abstract

In this study, a new fast approach to predict the net-tension failure strength of multi-bolt composite joints was developed based on finite fracture mechanics and p-version parametric finite element methods. In the proposed approach, stress distribution and stress intensity factor are obtained using the principle of superposition, based on which the problem can be divided into open hole tension and hole bearing problems. The stress distribution and stress intensity factor are determined by using p-version parametric finite element models, which is very computational efficient and can address laminates with arbitrary layup. For the validation purpose, the failure strengths of three multi-bolted joints were predicted and compared to the test data from public literatures, and good agreements were obtained. In addition, the effects of typical parameter variations on the net-tension failure strength were presented by performing a series of parametric studies, which would be a reference for engineering design of multi-bolt composite joints.