Numerical Simulation of Blind Hole Bolt Connection with 3-D Finite Element Approach

The simple, reliable and feasible finite element model with three-dimensional solid elements about blind hole bolt connection based on ANSYS is proposed to obtain bolt pre-tensional effect. It uses node coupling to simulate the connection effect of the thread and applies preload to the bolt in order to achieve pre-tensional effect by using the pretension elements in ANSYS. The FE model would be of great benefit to avoid computation of iterative large non-linearity contact behaviour when using a series of bolt joints, where the bolts are loaded in tension. The proposed model is verified by theoretical computing and shows to have good agreement. The FEM simulation analysis and theoretical computing results indicate that the maximum stress occurs in the first tooth of the thread, which bears about 30 percent of the load, and stress distribution is the same as real thread connecting.