Numerical analysis of a bearing strength in delaminated composite joint

Sammanfattning: Composite structures are commonly joined using adhesive or mechanical joints, withmechanical joints being preferred when components need to be removable for maintenancepurposes. However, the presence of mechanical joints introduces a discontinuity in theload path, which can serve as an initiation point for failure and needs to be taken intoaccount in the design of the joint. Additionally, delaminations may occur around thefastener hole during the manufacturing and assembly processes, further impacting thestrength of the laminate under compressive loading. While some studies have assessedthe residual strength of open-hole specimens, limited information exists regarding theresidual bearing strength in delaminated composite joints. This study aims to assessthe significance of delaminations of varying sizes on the bearing strength of single-bolt,single-lap shear joints under static loading using numerical analysis methods. The effectsof countersinking and bolt size are also examined. Stress and progressive failure analysisare utilized to evaluate different parameters and account for the nonlinear behavior of thematerials. The study reveals that the presence of delamination leads to degradation ofthe bearing strength of approximately five percent when bolt pretension is applied and15 percent in the absence of pretension. Countersinking increases maximum and averagestresses on the cylindrical section of the hole, while a larger bolt size enhances bearingstrength by reducing bolt bending in single-lap shear joints.