Identification of dynamic nonlinearities of bolted structures using strain analysis

Abstract

This work investigates the identification of the nonlinear behaviour of bolted structures through experimental and numerical analysis. Friction joints (especially bolted joints) generate nonlinear dynamic behaviours in a bolted assembled structure subject to dynamic loadings (especially high level vibrations) due to energy dissipation. The causes of nonlinearities are multiple and the ones related to joints will be researched in this piece of work. Although numerical simulation of nonlinear dynamic behaviour is complex, Finite Element models of a bolted flange will be used for strain analysis in order to develop a strategy for test planning of nonlinear vibration testing. Experimental tests and parameters that can be used to identify the joint nonlinearities will be used for developing correlation methods.