Computation method in failure analysis of mechanically fastened joints at layered composites

Abstract

This paper considers a computation method in failure analysis of layered composites containing pin-loaded holes. The investigation is focused on developing a reliable computation procedure to analyze initial failure load for pin-loaded holes at layered composite structures. Finite element method (FEM) is used to determine stress distribution around the fastener hole. Combining Chang-Scott-Springer characteristic curve model and Tsai-Wu initial failure criterion are used to determine joint failure. Special attention in this work is paid to pin-load distributions and its effect on the load level of failure and its location. In previous work initial failure analysis was carried out using cosine distribution between pin/lug mechanically fastened joint. Here contact finite element pin/lug model is analysed. The influence of stacking sequences of layered composites containing pin-loaded holes is also investigated. Special attention is paid to failure load and mode analyses in composites with stacking sequence [0/(±45)3/903]S. The computation results are compared with available experimental results. Good correlations between computation and experimental results are obtained. © 2012 Journal of Mechanical Engineering. All rights reserved.