Modeling and analysis of a bolted joint under tension and shear loads

Abstract

In this paper, a prismatic bolted joint subjected to tensile and shear loads is studied. The two applied forces are in the same symmetry plane of the connection. A simplified numerical model is developed, which is constructed from unidirectional finite elements and contact elements. The elastic contact layer of connected parts is represented by a succession of springs. An algorithm computing both the free structure stiffness matrix and the contact stiffness matrix is developed. Due to the shear load, static or kinetic friction can occur at contact surfaces between assembled parts. In each iteration, tangential contact forces are calculated and taken into account in problem solving. A program in C language is developed and used to calculate the model unknowns. Three-dimensional finite element simulations are performed using ANSYS software to verify results obtained by the developed model. The model results are also compared with experimental test data.