Strength prediction codes for bolted joints in composite structures

Abstract

Composite materials are used in variety of structural assemblies where joining of two or more components is imperative. Some of the joints are mechanical joints such as bolted and riveted connections. Others are fabricated by adhesive bonding, welding, brazing, and variety of other methods. In the last three decades, a number of computer codes have been developed to analyze the bolted joints in composite structures and predict the joint strength. In this paper the capabilities and limitations of these computer codes are outlined. Using some of the computer codes, the stress distribution in the hole region has been obtained and compared for a laminated plate with a circular hole in the center. This work is conducted as part of a larger effort currently underway at AdTech Systems Research, Inc. to establish a baseline to extend the joint design methodology for generalized composite systems including life prediction, thermal effects and dissimilar materials, and present the state-of-the-art approaches taken by the aerospace industry to design joints in composite structures.