Numerical Analysis of Riveted Lap Joint Used in Aircraft Structures

The paper presents the results of FEM analysis of two rivet lap joints loaded with tension. The joint consists of two sheets with dimensions of 125×60 mm and nominal thickness of 1.2 mm made of 2024-T3 clad alloy ASNA 3012 and two rivets (fig. 1). The countersunk rivets made of PA25 alloy were used. The diameter of the rivets was 3,5 mm and angle 120°, according to the BN-70/1121-05 standard.

Due to its symmetry, only a half of the joint was analysed. Nonlinear material models were used and contact phenomena between sheets, rivets and tools were taken into account. The analysis involved the riveting process as well as tensile loading of the joint. MSC MARC software was used.

The article presents the numerical analysis of the joint. The work of a rivet was studied. The results obtained up to date were discussed as well as the difficulties encountered. Experimental verification of the calculation with strain gauges is planned.

The financial support from Ministry of Science and Higher Education under the contract No. 59/EUR/2006/02 is gratefully acknowledged.