Numerical investigation of dynamically loaded bolted joints in carbon fibre composite structures

Abstract

This paper presents quasi-static and dynamic modelling of bolted composite structures using the explicit finite element code PAM-CRASH. User controlled point link (PLINK) elements were investigated for modelling the bolted composite joints used in the structures. Simulation results were compared with quasi-static and dynamic structural testing reported previously. Two loading configurations were considered. It was shown that the PLINK element modelling approach agreed well with the experimental results for both loading configurations and for one case offered significant improvements over other simplified bolt modelling methods. A stacked shell modelling approach was used to model the interlaminar delamination damage present in the ball-loaded impact mode. The overall response of the structure was significantly improved by the addition of these energy absorbing interfaces.