A non-destructive testing method for joints by the measurement of the energy dissipation

The multi-material mix used nowadays requires several joints to establish a durable connection. It is necessary to test the joints without harming the parts to ensure the safety of the whole structure. Therefore, a new approach for a non-destructive testing method is presented and validated in this paper. The aim is to establish the testing routine as a fast and easy alternative to the few known non-destructive testing procedures. The approach measures the dissipation of energy by detecting the propagated waves on the surfaces of the joining partners next to the joint. After a short description and a theoretical insight in wave propagation, the experimental results will be substantiated by simulated findings. A bolted connection was chosen in the experiments due to the possibility to easily apply and check different torque moments. The simulation model was adapted and tested for different applied contact pressures. The general results show a detectable loss of energy that can be linked to different torque moments. Different effects are visible in the simulation and the experiments and will be described. The findings will be discussed and an short outlook will be given. The aim of proving the concept via experimental and simulated results was reached.