Study of bolted joint axial stiffness using finite element analyses,experimental tests,and analytical calculations

Abstract

The bolted joints sizing procedures shall adequately match the conditions imposed on the joint in service, to ensure high reliability designs. Therefore, this study aims to analyze the load distributions on the bolt when applying external load on bolted joints. Finite element and extensometry analyses as well as analytical calculations were performed in order to compare the magnitude of the joint overall stiffness, with respect to several available theories. The results acquired through the analytical method prescribed in the VDI 2230 standard as well as the finite element and extensometry analyses obtained great accordance. These results indicate that VDI 2230 standard adequately represents the mechanical behavior of the joint and should be used as a guideline for the reliable design of bolted joints subjected to the loading conditions of the present paper.

Keywords

Bolted joints stiffness reliability

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