Tightening torque and washer size effects on bearing strength of fiber metal laminate bolted-joints

Abstract

The study investigated the effect of tightening torque and washer size on the mechanical properties of double-lap, single bolt fiber metal laminate (FML) joints. The tightening torque under the examination was 0.1Nm, 3 Nm, 5 Nm, 10 Nm and 15 Nm, and the washer size was changed by varying the value of outer diameter of washer (Dwo=11mm, Dwo=13mm, Dwo=15mm, Dwo=17mm and Dwo=19mm). A three-dimensional (3D) failure finite element model was used to predict the bearing behaviour of FML joints. The comparison between simulation and experimental results showed a good agreement in strength. The results showed that the effect of bolt tightening torque on the failure loads of bolt-loaded FML joints was obvious, and the effect of washer size on the load-bearing capacity was not sensitive. The present work provided supporting information for the design of FML joints.