Multiple crack growth simulation for lap-joints based on three-dimensional finite element analysis
Aircraft Engineering and Aerospace Technology
ISSN: 0002-2667
Article publication date: 31 May 2022
Issue publication date: 5 December 2022
Abstract
Purpose
The fuselage riveted lap-joints are susceptible to multiple site damage (MSD) and should be considered in damage tolerance analysis. This paper aims to investigate the stress intensity factor (SIF) and crack growth simulation for lap-joints based on three-dimensional (3D) finite element analysis.
Design/methodology/approach
The 3D finite element model of lap-joints is established by detailed representation of rivets and considering the rivet clamping force and friction. Numerical study is conducted to investigate the SIF distribution along the thickness direction and the effect of clamping force. A predictive method for the cracks propagation of MSD is then developed, in which an integral mean is adopted to quantify the SIF at crack tips, and the crack closure effect is considered. For comparison, a fatigue test of a lap-joint with MSD cracks is conducted to determine the cracks growth live and measure the cracks growth.
Findings
The numerical study shows that the through-thickness crack at riveted hole in lap-joints can be treated as mode I crack. The distribution of SIF along the thickness direction is inconstant and nonmonotonic. Besides, the increase in clamping force will lead to more frictional load transfer at the faying surfaces. The multiple crack growth simulation results agreed well with the experimental data.
Originality/value
The novelty of this work is that the SIF distribution along the thickness direction and the MSD cracks growth simulation for lap-joints are investigated by 3D finite element analysis, which can reflect the secondary bending, rivet clamping, contact and friction in lap-joints.
Keywords
Acknowledgements
This work was supported by the Fundamental Research Funds for the Central Universities in China through the 3122022099 project.
Citation
Zou, J., Yuechao, Z. and Feng, Z. (2022), "Multiple crack growth simulation for lap-joints based on three-dimensional finite element analysis", Aircraft Engineering and Aerospace Technology, Vol. 94 No. 10, pp. 1834-1844. https://doi.org/10.1108/AEAT-01-2021-0026
Publisher
:Emerald Publishing Limited
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