SIMULATION AND EXPERIMENTAL WORK OF SINGLE LAP BOLTED JOINT TESTED IN BENDING

This paper presents the simulation and experiment work on the prediction of stress analysis in a single lap bolted joint under bending loads. A three-dimensional finite element model of a bolted joint has been developed using MSC Patran and MSC Nastran FEM commercial package. In the simulation, different methods in modelling the contact between the joint, which affects the efficiency of the models were detailed. Experimental work was then conducted to measure strains and deformations of the specimens for validation of the developed numerical model. A four-point bending load type of testing was used in both the simulation and experiment works. The results from both simulation and experiment were then compared and show good agreement. Several factors that potentially influenced the variation of the results were noted. Finally, critical areas were identified and confirmed with the stress distribution results from simulation.