Three-dimensional mechanical characteristics analysis of bolted joints and loosening mechanism

Abstract

Bolted joints are widely used in various industries. However, in challenging conditions such as shock, vibration, and temperature fluctuations, threads can loosen, leading to equipment damage and accidents. Scholars have introduced self-locking thread designs like wedge-shaped self-locking threads and stepped threads to improve anti-loosening performances. While experiments support their effectiveness, previous research primarily focused on optimizing thread structure parameters, and the studies of loosening mechanism are not in-depth enough, which restricts the development of anti-loosening bolted joints. This paper proposes a parametric modeling approach to create 3D elastic–plastic finite element models of bolted joints with different thread profiles. This approach allows for a comprehensive analysis of structural behavior, stress distribution, and load conditions, enabling the in-depth examination of the mechanical properties for thread loosening. A novel arc-lock anti-loosening threads design is proposed. Arc-lock threads are found to provide superior load distribution uniformity, increased normal force, and enhanced frictional resistance. Furthermore, the correctness of the finite element results is validated through photoelastic experiments and transverse vibration experiments. Results show that under a preload force of 225.5kN, the assembly of M24 Grade 10.9 bolts with Grade 10 nuts exhibit RMSE (Root Mean Square Error) values of 11.25, 9.02, and 8.76 for regular threads, wedge-shaped threads and arc-lock threads, respectively. Arc-lock threads demonstrate a more uniform stress distribution. In transverse vibration experiments under fully tightened conditions, regular threads loosened at the 2326th vibration cycle, while wedge-shaped self-locking threads and arc-lock threads maintained the preload percentages of 91.24% and 93.51%, respectively. These findings offer a scientific basis for understanding anti-loosening mechanisms in bolted joints and inform anti-loosening thread design.