Effects of tolerances on the structural behavior of a bolted hybrid joint

In this work, results from a study on bolted joints made of unidirectional, quasi isotropic Carbon Fiber Reinforced Polymer (CFRP) composites, subjected to tensile loads, are reported. CFRP composite materials are widely used in the mechanical industry, such as that of aerospace, where requirements of weight reduction and structural high performances are very compelling. Composite materials generally present a high resistance to fatigue and corrosion; however, the presence of joints produces the major problems and a poor design of joints leads to a drastic reduction of the reliability of structures made of these materials. A hybrid bolted joint involving a metal plate, made of aluminum alloy, and a CFRP composite plate has been considered; the plates are held together by a titanium bolt. Experimental results from literature are compared with those obtained through a numerical analysis developed with Abaqus code. Once the CFRP composite has been analyzed and the numerical model validated through numerical-experimental correlations, other possible configurations have been numerically analyzed in order to ensure the highest strength of the examined hybrid joint. Afterwards the effects of bolt-hole clearance on the stiffness and strength of the same joint have been investigated. © (2012) Trans Tech Publications.