Simple and efficient prediction of bearing failure in single shear, composite lap joints

A straightforward procedure to predict bearing strength in bolted composite structures has been developed. The method is based on a finite element analysis, using structural elements, followed by a post-processing procedure. Bolt-hole clearance, friction between member plates, fastener clamp-up and fastener deformation is accounted for. Forces calculated in the FE-analysis are converted into a local stress field which is used in an existing criterion to predict fiber microbuckling in the most critically loaded lamina. Predictions were compared with experiments which validated the method. The small computational cost required by the procedure suggests that the method is applicable on large scale structures and suitable to use in conjunction with iterative schemes such as optimization and statistical investigations.