Investigation into Joint Stiffness for Finite Element Modelling of the Dynamic Behaviour of a Structure with Bolted Joints

Abstract

Accurate representation of the joint stiffness of bolted joints in the finite element (FE) model of a jointed structure is vital to ensure the accuracy and reliability of the predicted dynamic behaviour of the structure. The aim of this work was to put forward an efficient FE modelling method embodying the representation of the joint stiffness for the investigation of an assembled structure with bolted joints. The predicted FE results were compared with those obtained from the experimental modal analysis (EMA). EMA was performed to measure the natural frequencies and mode shapes of the structure with bolted joints. The calculated total error from the comparison of the natural frequencies between the FE and EMA were recorded. The results of the investigation showed that there is a noticeable contribution of the joint stiffness in the representation of the structure with bolted joints in developing the efficient FE modelling method.