Author(s)

W.S. Arnold, I.H. Marshall & J. Wood

Abstract

Finite element modelling of mechanically fastened composite joints W.S. Arnold, I.H. Marshall, J. Wood Department of Mechanical and Manufacturing Engineering, University of Paisley, UK ABSTRACT The analysis of mechanically fastened composite joints is an intrinsically complex problem due to the number of material and design variables which can influence the ultimate joint strength. This paper examines the use of finite element techniques in the analysis of composite bolted joints. Modelling strategies are discussed with particular reference to three dimensional analysis of cross-ply CFRP joints. The influence of pin friction, clamping pressure and laminate stacking sequence are assessed and compared qualitatively with experimental data. The application of common strength prediction techniques is discussed. INTRODUCTION Early experimental investigations [1-3], have identified important parameters which influence the strength of mechanically fastened composite joints. I

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