Bearing Strength at Bolt Holes of Aluminum Alloy

Abstract:

The basic theory and the calculation method of “Code for Design of Aluminum Structures” about the bolts joints against shear force were analyzed. 15 tests of shear bolt connections and numerical simulation studies were carried out. The research results show that the value of bearing strength at bolt holes given by “Code for Design of Aluminum Structures” is too conservative. According to the failure phenomena from the experiments and numerical simulation, the deformation failure criterion was proposed. And based on this criterion, numerical studies on the effect of bolt diameter, plate thickness and end distance on the bearing strength at bolt holes were undertaken, and the calculation formula of bolt bearing strength were derived and verified.

Key words:aluminum alloy structures; shearing bolt connections; bearing strength at bolt holes; failure criteria