Structural Shear Joints: Analyses, Properties and Design for Repeat Loading

This book describes the mechanical response of butt, lap and doubler joints. The findings apply to shear connections in civil, aerospace, and other mechanical structures subjected to repeated loading. The findings are intended for engineers and NDE practitioners concerned with the design of new, as well as inspection and maintenance of existing shear joints.

Fatigue strengths of the joints are derived using conventional, material S-N data and the joint stress concentration factor. Structural Shear Joints treats the different modes of load transmission: the bearing, clamped, and adhesive modes, joint geometry: fastener spacing and number of fastener rows, and fastener geometry: standard and countersunk heads and self-piercing and interference fasteners. It contains analyses that relate global features with the local conditions that govern contact fatigue damage such as the contact pressures, interface slips and the intensity and locations of stress concentrations. The role of fretting wear is discussed.

The estimates of joint fatigue strength are compared with a selection of fatigue strength measurements for aluminum and steel joints. In many cases, the method offers valid estimates and preliminary designs of joints meeting given fatigue strength requirements. The book incorporates the results of over 150 recent and detailed, 2D and 3D finite element analyses of aluminum and steel connections. It includes handbook-type summaries of the results of the finite element calculations, as well as modeling details such as finite element meshes, material models, boundary conditions and validation procedures to assist design engineers with computations.

A simplified methodology for modeling joints that contain adhesive is also provided. Useful for all engineers concerned with structural fatigue, the book addresses riveted and bolted joints, aluminum connections for airframes and automotive bodies, and steel connections for machines and bridges. It is a unique reference for instructors and students in advanced design courses.