Parametric study of single and multi-bolted joints in composite structures

This paper studies the behavior of single and multi-bolted joints in composite structures during uniaxial tensile deformation as well as the distribution of maximum equivalent stresses, distribution of principal stresses, damage, and failure after applying a simple tensile load had been studied. All composite joints are single-lap and have both one and multiple bolts which were analyzed by Finite Element Methods using three-dimensional geometry. The geometry and properties of single bolt structure were defined according to the ASTM standard D 5961/D 5961 M-96. The effect of various parameters such as preload, the diameter of bolts, clearance, and the distance between hole and edge of laminates on the distribution of equivalent and principal stresses has been investigated. Furthermore, different types of experimental tests have been done covered multi-bolted joints which have been used to validate the Finite Element Model. The last parameter had been studied namely; the distance between bolts has been considered which influences damage and failure analyzed by Hashin failure mode. The results illustrated significant changes in both stress distribution and failure mode of each laminate